The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Pilot Howard S. Packard, United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Fighter Pilot in a Fighting Squadron in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Midway, 4 to 6 June 1942. While engaged in combat patrol, Aviation Pilot Packard, at great personal risk, made a determined attack against enemy aircraft approaching U.S.S. YORKTOWN and assisted in the destruction of at least one enemy airplane. On 6 June 1942, he delivered an effective strafing attack, inflicting heavy damage on enemy vessels. His skill as an airman, his courageous perseverance and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.