The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Master Sergeant John Verner Anderson (MCSN: 627517), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving with a Marine Observation Squadron in Korea, on 25 August 1952. Serving as a Pilot of a slow, unarmed observation aircraft, Master Sergeant Anderson displayed outstanding courage and professional skill in the performance of his duties. While flying over enemy territory, he located a large concentration of enemy troops and maneuvered his aircraft to allow his observer to adjust artillery fire on the position. While the observer was directing fire, Master Sergeant Anderson located several active artillery positions firing on friendly troops. With no concern for his personal safety and although subjected to intense enemy anti-aircraft fire he skillfully flew his plane at dangerously low altitudes, enabling the observer to adjust fire on all of the targets. Master Sergeant Anderson’s devotion to duty and resourcefulness were an inspiration to all who observed him and materially contributed to the destruction of several enemy positions. His heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.