The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Petty Officer Joseph E. Cross, United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as a member of Torpedo Squadron FOURTEEN (VT-14), onboard the U.S.S. WASP during WWII from 19 May to 7 September 1944. In the successful completion of these missions, Petty Officer Cross contributed materially to the success of the United States efforts. By his undaunted courage, superb airmanship, and unyielding devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions, Petty Officer Cross reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.