The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant John W. Blocker, Jr. (MCSN: 0-21282), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a pilot attached to a Marine Scout Bombing Squadron operating in the Solomon Islands and Bismarck Archipelago areas from 31 December 1943 to 14 September 1944. During three tours of duty, Lieutenant Blocker took part in forty dive bombing attacks against Japanese shipping, airfields and shore installations, frequently encountering intense anti-aircraft fire. On 7 February and 8 May, while participating in strikes against enemy airfields on New Britain and New Ireland, he scored hits on gun emplacements. On six other occasions, he scored hits on gun positions and destroyed several warehouses in enemy supply areas. His courageous conduct and superior airmanship contributed materially to the success of all missions and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.