AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  WWII
MODEL:  -

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Charles H. Freer for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as Pilot of a Fighter Plane in Composite Squadron Sixty Five, attached to the U.S.S. St. Lo, in action against major units of the Japanese Fleet during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on October 25, 1944. With our invasion forces threatened by a heavy enemy Task Group, Lieutenant (then Lieutenant, Junior Grade) Freer courageously pressed home repeated strafing attacks on hostile warships in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire and, retiring only after his ammunition was expended, contributed greatly to the successful execution of a hazardous mission. His airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.