The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander Vincent J. Anania (NSN: 389321/1310), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of P4M-1Q BuNo 122209 attached to Electronic Countermeasures Squadron ONE on 16 June 1959. While on a routine training flight over international waters in the Sea of Japan his aircraft was attacked without warning by two MiG fighter aircraft of unknown nationality who savagely pressed home their attack in six passes repeatedly hitting the P4M-1Q with 20-mm. gunfire. His extraordinary skill in conducting evasive maneuvers successfully minimized the number of hits scored by the attackers. With the starboard reciprocating and jet engines inoperative, the rudder controls shot away, and extensive damage to the fuselage and wings, he demonstrated superb airmanship in maintaining his plane in flight for over 300 miles to Miho Air Base, Japan, where a safe landing was made. His courage, skill, and devotion to duty in the face of unexpected peacetime hostile gunfire are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.