The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Technical Sergeant Harold E. Thomas (ASN: 18202612), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Radio Operator Gunner on a B-17 airplane on numerous bombardment missions in the air offensive against the enemy over Continental Europe during World War II. Sergeant Thomas distinguished himself by the efficient operation of his radio as well as by warding off numerous enemy fighter attacks, thereby contributing invaluable service in delivering damaging blows to the enemy. The courage and alert actions of Sergeant Thomas in the face of great danger on all these operations are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Military Forces of the United States.