The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Hartsel Filler McCue (NSN: 0-146138), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a carrier based torpedo bomber plane on 4 August 1944 in the vicinity of the Bonin Islands in the Central Pacific. On this date, he took part in an aerial torpedo attack against enemy fleet units and merchant shipping. In the face of extremely intense and accurate naval anti-aircraft fire, he skillfully maneuvered his plane to a dangerously close range and obtained a direct hit with his torpedo upon a large Japanese cargo vessel, which was observed to sink very soon thereafter. He then conducted repeated strafing attacks upon a concentration of Japanese landing craft, barges and luggers. His determination in pressing home these attacks contributed materially to the destruction of many important enemy ships. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.