The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Major Jack Ralph Amende, Jr. (MCSN: 0-6909), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the Tokyo Bay Area on 16 February 1945. Flying as a pilot of a carrier-based fighter plane he led a flight, as squadron commander, in a damaging low level attack against a major enemy airfield. He conducted an aggressive strafing attack in the face of anti-aircraft fire and enemy airborne opposition. His courage and leadership under fire were outstanding and inspirational and were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.