The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign John W. Burton (NSN: 0-337461), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial night flights in operations against the enemy in the vicinity of the Philippine Islands, Formosa, China coast, Nansei Shoto, and Tokyo. As pilot of a carrier-based plane during the period 13 November 1944 to 20 February 1945, he participated in seven low altitude patrols at dusk, one combat air patrol at dusk, and one combat air patrol at night. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.