Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Batallion:

    Fighter Squadron 783 (VF-783

    Division:

    U.S.S. Bon Homme Richard (CVA-31)

    Action Date:

    October 11, 1951

    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 1965 (November 28, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander James O. Anthony, Jr., United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight and devotion to duty while serving as Commanding Officer of Fighter Squadron SEVEN HUNDRED EIGHTY-THREE (VF-783), serving with Carrier Air Group ONE HUNDRED TWO, operating from the U.S.S. BON HOMME RICHARD (CVA-31), while leading a flight of ten Corsair aircraft on an anti-aircraft suppression mission against enemy anti-aircraft suppression mission against enemy anti-aircraft defending large stores of ammunition and troop concentrations in the enemy held city of Pukchong in Communist North Korea. His brilliant planning and execution of his assignment resulted in all known anti-aircraft positions in the area being completely destroyed. His aggressiveness, combined with the element of surprise he effectively achieved, enabled the accompanying Skyraider aircraft to attack the primary target un-harassed by enemy fire. After completing his mission, he and his flight joined the Skyraiders in making repeated bombing and strafing attacks which resulted in the destruction of ninety-five percent of the target. His leadership, aggressiveness, initiative and skilled airmanship were materially contributing to the destruction of large supplies of sorely needed ammunition, anti-aircraft positions and the killing in action of an undisclosed number of enemy troops. His actions were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.