The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Ordnanceman Second Class James W. Bailey (NSN: 3784483), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Gunner of a Navy Patrol Bomber in a low level attack on Marcus Island on 9 May 1945. IN the face of fully alerted defenses and despite intense anti-aircraft fire which severely damaged his plane, the attack was pressed home causing considerable damage in a hangar and shop area. His airmanship, courage, and complete devotion to duty throughout were outstanding and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.


