The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Machinist’s Mate Third Class James E. Barker (NSN: 8439007), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as turret gunner of a carrier-based Torpedo Bomber assigned to bomb a large important Aircraft Factory in the Tokyo Area on 16 February 1945. In the face of accurate and intense anti-aircraft fire and in spite of determined air opposition for an extended period from enemy planes in superior numbers he performed his duties skillfully at all times, and by exercising excellent teamwork with another gunner assisted in shooting down one enemy plane, thereby materially assisting his pilot in carrying out the assigned mission. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.