The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant John F. Callahan (MCSN: 0-16507), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a Scout Bomber Plane in Marine Scout Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED FORTY-TWO (VMSB-142), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Philippine Islands Area, from 2 to 14 June 1945. Completing his twentieth mission during this period, First Lieutenant Callahan contributed materially to the success of his squadron in the infliction of extensive damage on the enemy. His courage and devotion to duty in the face of aerial opposition and anti-aircraft fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.