The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Aviation Machinist’s Mate Third Class Jay Darrell Manning (NSN: 3858557), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as free machine gunner of a Torpedo Plane in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Midway, 4 and 5 June 1942. In the initial attack upon an enemy aircraft carrier, Aviation Machinist’s Mate Third Class Manning, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, effectively manned his machine gun in the face of a tremendous barrage of fire from numerous Japanese fighter planes and anti-aircraft batteries. His courageous determination and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.