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 Major (Air Corps) Russel A. Cone, United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight, for his initiative and command while acting in the capacity of first Pilot. Major Cone made repeated day and night flights over the Aleutian area from 3 June 1942 to 18 June 1942. These flights were made in the face of inclement weather and in the presence of the enemy. Major Cone’s dogged determination to accomplish his mission in spite of the elements and the opposition of the enemy finally culminated in an assault on 18 June 1942, in which his airplane was successful in sinking a Japanese transport. His courage, initiative and command is worthy of the highest praise. His outstanding courage and dedication to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.