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 Captain (Air Corps) Oscar D. Whitten, United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while serving as Pilot of the lead airplane of bombardment formations composed of B-17 aircraft on bombing missions over Germany and enemy occupied Europe, 17 January 1945, 3 February 1945, 10 February 1945, 22 February 1945, and 15 March 1945. Throughout these operations Captain Whitten served in a distinctive manner, evincing exceptional flying ability and initiative. In the face of adverse weather conditions and accurate anti-aircraft fire, which rendered vital controls inoperative on one occasion, he led the aircraft under his command to the assigned objectives where bombs were dropped with accuracy. He then safely negotiated the return flight to England. The courage, coolness and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Whitten reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.