Distinguished Flying Cross

The Distinguished Flying Cross is awarded to any person who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of the United States, distinguishes himself by heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. The performance of the act of heroism must be evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty. The extraordinary achievement must have resulted in an accomplishment so exceptional and outstanding as to clearly set the individual apart from his comrades or from other persons in similar circumstances.

Awards are only made to recognise single acts of heroism or extraordinary achievement and are not be made in recognition of sustained operational activities against an armed enemy.

It was instituted in 1926.