The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade “E” G. Blankenship (NSN: 0-176549), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in operations against an enemy battleship task force in waters surrounding the Philippine Islands, 26 October 1944. As pilot of a carrier-based fighter bomber plane he twice strafed and damaged an enemy battleship despite continuous, intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire. His determined attacks materially contributed to the defeat and routing of the enemy fleet and his skill and courage were at all times inspiring and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.