The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade John Kingsman Beling, United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a carrier-based dive bombing plane assigned to attack enemy shipping in the vicinity of the Bonin Islands on 4 July 1944. While dive bombing an enemy ammunition ship, he deliberately dove to a minimum altitude through an intense screen of anti-aircraft fire and scored a direct hit, causing an explosion and complete demolition of the enemy ship. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.