The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Chief Aviation Machinist’s Mate Richard G. Watson, Jr., United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as crew member of a patrol bomber plane in Patrol Bombing Squadron FORTY-FOUR, during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Southwest Pacific area from 8 March to 7 April 1943. Completing his twentieth mission during this period, Watson participated in combat air patrols in the face of grave hazards, thereby contributing materially to the success of his aircraft. His courage, technical skill and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.