The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Aviation Chief Ordnanceman’s Mate James Donald March, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous gallantry in action against the enemy while serving on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the operations of the U.S. Naval Forces north of the Santa Cruz, Islands, on 26 October 1942. While the HORNET was under heavy enemy aerial attack, Aviation Chief Ordnanceman’s Mate March coolly and efficiently, and without regard for his personal safety, entered a blazing and smoke-filled compartment and shored up an unexploded 500-pound bomb, and thereby rendered it as safe as possible under the existing conditions. He then aided in extinguishing the fire in the vicinity of the bomb. His courageous action is considered to be far above and beyond the call of duty, and befitting the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.