The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant James Benjamin Black (NSN: 0-156991), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in operations against the enemy in the vicinity of Osaka-Nagoya, Northern Honshu and Tokyo. As pilot of a carrier-based fighter plane during the period of 25 April 1945 to 15 August 1945, he participated in twenty combat strikes against enemy shipping, airfields and installations, inflicting extensive damage. His skill and courage were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.