The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Thomas Joseph Boucher (NSN: 0-382528), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights on 18 and 19 March 1945, as pilot of a carrier-based fighter-bomber plane in attacks against airfields on the Japanese homeland. He carried out with extreme vigor and intelligence every attack assignment with complete disregard for the intense enemy anti-aircraft fire. His skill and bravery were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.