The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain [then Commander] John Harper McElroy (NSN: 0-62661), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Commander of a PBY4Y-1 and Commanding Officer of a Photographic Squadron, during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the South Pacific War Area, from 21 November 1943 to 13 April 1944. Completing numerous missions during this period, many of which were flown deep into enemy territory where he was subjected to anti-aircraft fire and hostile fighter interception, Captain McElroy secured valuable photographs and information which were of great assistance to our forces in carrying out successful bombardments against Japanese shore installations, airfields and other ground positions in this area. His skill as an airman and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.