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 First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Arthur W. Cruse, United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a pilot of a B-26 type aircraft. On 8 January 1944, Lieutenant Cruse led an attack upon the vital highway bridge at Roccasecca, Italy. Encountering intense anti-aircraft fire for more than twenty miles upon the approach to the target, Lieutenant Cruse so skillfully led the evasive action of his squadron that all bombers reached the initial point without serious damage. His bombardier then directed such an accurate run over the objective that the bridge was destroyed. All of our aircraft returned safely. On many combat missions throughout the Sicilian and Italian Campaigns, Lieutenant Cruse has distinguished himself through his determination and aggressiveness. His steadfast devotion to duty and outstanding proficiency reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.