AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Korea
MODEL:  F4U

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Harold K. Matthes for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a Fighter Aircraft and as Section Leader in Fighter Squadron One Hundred Thirteen, attached to the U.S.S. Philippine Sea, during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 5 August to 19 October 1950. Completing thirty-five missions during this period, Lieutenant (then Lieutenant, Junior Grade) Matthes led his section in close air support flights and bombing attacks against enemy airfield installations, lines of communication, transport facilities, bridges, gun emplacements and troop concentrations. By his courage, skilled airmanship and devotion to duty in the face of hostile anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Matthes materially aided in inflicting extensive damage upon the enemy and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.