The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major John Edward Blake (ASN: AO -748534), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against an enemy on 21 April 1951. On that date, Major Blake was Pilot of a B-26 Invader Attack Bomber from the 13th Bombardment Squadron, (L-NI), 3d Bombardment Group , FIFTH Air Force, on a single plane low-level combat mission over Korea. Major Blake successfully reached the target area despite the hazardous weather conditions. In the vicinity of the target he encountered intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire from many dug-in gun emplacements. Although his plane did not have turret guns to give additional protection during the low level attacks, he proceeded to bomb and strafe repeatedly, destroying a multiple mount .50 caliber gun emplacement, and silencing all anti-aircraft fire in the area. Major Blake then located five railroad engines in a marshalling yard south of Songchon. Again under heavy anti-aircraft fire which shot two radio antennae off his aircraft and inflicted other damage, he made repeated attacks, destroying one locomotive, damaging four others, and damaging fifteen boxcars. After expending all bombs and ammunition, Major Blake remained in the target area until after daylight to observe any movement of rolling stock. At daylight he called for fighter aircraft and led them to the railroad yards. Disregarding the fact that he had no armament; Major Blake made a simulated attack on the targets and positively identified them to the fighter aircraft, insuring complete destruction. He then turned homeward after five hours in the target area. Through his outstanding skill, heroism and devotion to duty, Major Blake reflected great credit upon himself, the FAR EAST Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.