The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander Frederick James Brush (NSN: 0-70049), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in operations against the enemy. On 15 January 1945, as pilot of a carrier-based fighter plane, he led a group of carrier-based fighter and torpedo planes in an attack upon enemy shipping in the vicinity of southern Formosa. Skillfully deploying the planes under his command, he conducted a highly effective attack which resulted in serious damage to the enemy. During this attack and in the face of extremely intense anti-aircraft fire, he personally obtained two direct rocket hits upon a large enemy oiler in the harbor. These rocket hits were an important factor in the resultant burning and sinking of the enemy vessel. His skill and leadership were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.