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 Staff Sergeant Robert H. Monahan, United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the Mediterranean and North African Theaters of Operation while serving with the 831st Bombardment Squadron, 485th Bombardment Group, FIFTEENTH Air Force during World War II. Showing a high order of courage, leadership and professional skill, this aircrew member has distinguished himself through many long and hazardous combat missions against the enemy opposition by large numbers of fighter aircraft and intense, accurate heavy anti-aircraft fire. Displaying great combat spirit and aggressiveness, he met, engaged and defeated the enemy regardless of the odds. In spite of the fact that at times the plane was severely damaged, his skill and fortitude helped fight their way through to the objective to inflict grave damage upon the enemy. By his heroism, skill and airmanship shown throughout his combat career, together with his intense devotion to duty during this period of intense combat operations, Staff Sergeant Monahan upheld the highest traditions of the Military Service, reflecting great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States of America.