AWARDED DFC: 3
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  -

Citation:  1.) The Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as a Pilot in Air Group One, attached to the U.S.S. YORKTOWN, in action against enemy Japanese aerial forces during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, June 19, 1944. Encountering strong enemy forces enroute to attack his Task Force in the vicinity of the Marianas Islands, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, (then Ensign) Matz engaged the hostile aircraft in combat and pressed home relentless attacks. His airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Untied States Naval Service.

2.) Lieutenant Rudolph Walter Matz, United States Navy, is awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as Pilot of a Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron One, attached to the U.S.S. YORKTOWN, during operations against enemy Japanes forces in the vicinity of the Marianas and Bonin Islands from June 25 to July 9, 1944. Completing his twentieth mission during this period, Lieutenant (then Ensign) Matz carried out bombing and strafing attacks against enemy shipping and installations, inflicting damage on the Japanese and contributing materially to the success of his squadron. His skilled airmanship and courageous devotion to duty in the face of heavy hostile anti-aircraft fire and fighter opposition reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Matz and the United States Naval Service.

3.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Rudolph W. Matz for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against enemy forces on 19 June 1944. While in the vicinity of the Mariana Islands, he engaged large enemy forces enroute to attack his task force. During the action, he made formidable attacks upon the enemy planes. His coolness, bravery, and resourcefulness were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.