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 First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Bernard S. Thompson, U.S. Army Air Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight. Lieutenant Thompson, as one of the pilots of the airplane ST. LOUIS during the Pan American flight, from 21 December 1926 to 2 May 1927, displayed initiative, resourcefulness, and a high degree of skill under the many trying conditions encountered throughout the flight. His tireless energy, sound judgment, and personal courage contributed materially to the successful completion of this mission of good will.