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) Joe J. Synar (ASN: 0-693485), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight over Taichu Airdrome, Formosa, on 17 March 1945, and Hong Kong, China, on 2 April 1945. On 17 March 1945, Captain Synar led one of four squadrons of B-24’s on a strike against enemy installations at Taichu Airdrome. On his first run over the airdrome heavy clouds obscured the target. Although two engines of his plane had lost power he again led his B-24’s over the target. They dropped their bombs and destroyed or damaged hangars and demolished several warehouses. On 2 April 1945, Captain Synar led Six B-24 aircraft on a proposed daylight strike against Hong Kong. These bombers were the only ones out of four squadrons to get through the extremely difficult weather and reach the rendezvous point. By radio direction and skilful maneuvering, Captain Synar assembled the planes into a squadron formation and led them to the target. Though enemy fighters intercepted the formation and anti-aircraft fire over the target was intense and concentrated, he and his flight completed the bombing run, scoring hits which demolished or damaged warehouses, slipways and dock installations. The outstanding courage and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Synar during these flights are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army Air Forces.