The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Second Lieutenant (Air Corps) Raymond Michael Rahner, United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Navigator of a B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 422d Bombardment Squadron, 305th Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force. While on an operational mission over enemy territory, a cannon shell burst in the nose compartment, critically wounding the bombardier and Lieutenant Rahner. After administering emergency first aid to the bombardier, Lieutenant Rahner immediately assumed the duties of bombardier in addition to performing his own duties as navigator, and upon reaching the target released the bombs. The aircraft was immediately attacked by a force of enemy airplanes, but in spite of his wound this officer gallantly manned the bombardier’s guns as well as his own until the enemy attack was driven off. The courage, skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Rahner on this occasion in the defense of his aircraft materially aided in safe return to a friendly base.