The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel (Air Corps) James Herbert Macia, Jr. (ASN: 0-419330), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Navigator of a B-26 of the 320th Bombardment Group, on 18 May 1944. Lieutenant Colonel Macia flew as flight commander and lead navigator of a large formation in an attack on a road junction at Ceprano, Italy. Displaying great courage and professional skill as he directed his formation in vigorous, evasive actions through continued enemy anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Colonel Macia guided the bombers direct to the initial point when a direct hit from enemy ground fire shattered the Plexiglas nose of his aircraft and wounded the bombardier. Lieutenant Colonel Macia assisted the wounded bombardier in setting a true course for the bomb run thereby enabling the formation to score direct hits, establishing an effective road block in this vital link of the enemy’s communications. His steadfast devotion to duty and his outstanding proficiency have brought great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) James Herbert Macia, Jr. (ASN: 0-419330), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement as Navigator of a B-25 Bomber of the 1st Special Aviation Project (Doolittle Raider Force), while participating in a highly destructive raid on the Japanese mainland on 18 April 1942. Lieutenant Macia with 79 other officers and enlisted men volunteered for this mission knowing full well that the chances of survival were extremely remote, and executed his part in it with great skill and daring. This achievement reflects high credit on himself and the military service.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: First Lieutenant (Air Corps) James Herbert Macia, Jr. (ASN: 0-419330), United States Army Air Forces, was awarded a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight.