The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant James Wanner Barnitz (NSN: 0-121699), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron FIFTEEN (VB-15, attached to the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on 24 October 1944. Leading a three-plane section Lieutenant Barnitz executed a determined attack in the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire from the entire enemy disposition, and obtained a direct hit on a battleship of the YAMATO Class. Lieutenant Barnitz’ outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Lieutenant James Wanner Barnitz (NSN: 0-121699), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron FIFTEEN (VB-15), attached to the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), during offensive air operations against enemy shipping on 5 November 1944, in Manila Bay in the Island of Luzon of the Philippine Group. On this occasion, in the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Barnitz courageously pressed an attack upon an enemy heavy cruiser of the NACHI Class. He made a direct hit upon this target which together with other hits in subsequent attacks led to the sinking of this vessel. Lieutenant Barnitz’s outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.