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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant James Wickersham McCauley, United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flight. As a Section Leader in a Bombing Squadron, Lieutenant Wickersham led his section in repeated attacks against enemy ships and shore installations during the Marshall Islands attack on 1 February 1942. These attacks, delivered in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire and at times opposed by enemy fighters, resulted in the sinking of a submarine, the destruction of several large seaplanes, a hangar and other buildings and damage to the flying field. His leadership, courage and resourcefulness in his choice of targets were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Batallion:

    Composite Squadron 76 (VC-76)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Petrof Bay (CVE-80)

    Action Date:

    October 25, 1944
    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 0841 (June 7, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander James Wickersham McCauley, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane and Commander of Composite Squadron SEVENTY-SIX (VC-76), attached to the U.S.S. PETROF BAY (CVE-80), during action against major units of the Japanese Fleet in the Battle off Samar, on 25 October 1944. When a strong force of enemy men-of-war steamed through the San Bernadino Straits and viciously attacked a relatively unprotected escort carrier task unit, Commander McCauley promptly took off from his carrier under extremely adverse conditions and gallantly led his flight to the vicinity of the fierce action. Maneuvering for maximum striking power immediately upon contact, he launched an aggressive, determined attack and, boldly plunging through the enemy’s shattering anti-aircraft fire, directed relentless strafing runs against Japanese battleships with devastating speed and skill, effectively diverting their fire from our attacking torpedo planes. By his brilliant and forceful leadership, his superb airmanship and indomitable fighting spirit in the face of overwhelming odds, Commander McCauley contributed immeasurably to the extensive and costly damage inflicted upon the enemy in this decisive engagement and his valiant devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.