The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Master Technical Sergeant John William Andre (MCSN: 0-49287/290535), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as a Pilot of a Fighter Plane in Marine Night Fighter Squadron FIVE HUNDRED FORTY-ONE (VMF(N)-541), during action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of the Western Caroline Islands from 1 February to 25 May 1945. Completing his fortieth mission during this period, Master Technical Sergeant Andre contributed materially to the success of his squadron in the infliction of damage on the enemy. His courage and devotion to duty in the face of anti-aircraft fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.