The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Aviation Radioman Third Class John E. Blank, Jr. (NSN: 3761088), United States Navy, for heroic and distinguished service as Radioman Gunner of a Torpedo Plane during the Battle of the Coral Sea, 7 and 8 May 1942. He assisted in attacks on enemy aircraft carriers while being subjected to intense anti-aircraft fire. During an attack by enemy aircraft on the squadron, two type-97 fighter planes were shot down and destroyed by rear seat gun action. On 7 May his plane scored a torpedo hit on an enemy carrier which contributed to her destruction and to the victory attained by our forces.