The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Radioman Second Class Durward E. Blakely (NSN: 6031266), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as radio operator of a carrier-based division lead plane in a torpedo attack against a strong Japanese task force off Kyushu on 7 April 1945. The skillful manner in which he employed his equipment materially assisted his pilot in making an accurate torpedo attack which probably sank a Japanese destroyer. The attack was made through intense anti-aircraft fire which hit his plane repeatedly and seriously wounded him. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.