The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade William Douglas Carter, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Pilot in a Scout Bombing Squadron of the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12) Air Group during action against enemy Japanese forces near Santa Cruz Islands, 26 October 1942. In a bold flight opposed by enemy fighters and anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Carter pressed home his attack, scoring a direct hit on a large Japanese aircraft carrier. Upon his return to base, he again displayed expert airmanship and courage in shooting down an enemy dive bomber. His skill and gallant devotion to duty contributed in large measure to the extremely heavy damage inflicted upon the enemy.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign William Douglas Carter, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of an airplane in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Midway on 6 June 1942. With utter disregard for his own personal safety, Ensign Carter took part in persistent bombing and strafing attacks against fleeing enemy forces in the face of tremendous anti-aircraft fire. By his stern perseverance and resolute devotion to the accomplishment of a vastly important objective, he contributed greatly to the destruction of the enemy and to the victory achieved by our forces. His conduct on this occasion was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.