The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain (Air Corps) James C. Covington, United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a P-47 type aircraft. On 9 August 1944, Captain Covington flew in an attack upon enemy gun positions defending an airdrome near Bergamo, Italy. Upon the approach to the target, engine trouble forced his leader to return to base. Immediately, Captain Covington assumed command of the formation. Displaying great courage and aggressive leadership in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire, Captain Covington repeatedly strafed the airfield, destroying or damaging more than forty guns and one enemy aircraft. Then reforming his flight, Captain Covington strafed a motor convoy, destroying two half tracks, seven motor trucks and damaging ten other vehicles. His outstanding proficiency in combat and steadfast devotion to duty have reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.