The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Captain James P. Blackshire (MCSN: 0-9933), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. During the critical period of the campaign on Leyte Island, upon which the whole Philippine Campaign hinged, Captain Blackshire attacked an enemy destroyer. He made a masthead attack on the destroyer through light, medium and heavy anti-aircraft fire, scoring a direct hit on the destroyer which sank. His courage and skill contributed to the defeat of the Japanese at Ormoc, and the successful outcome of the Leyte Campaign. His conduct was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.