Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Ensign

    Batallion:

    Bombing Squadron 18 (VB-18)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Intrepid

    Action Date:

    October 12, 1944

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Ensign John Joseph Boyle (NSN: 0-320579), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a carrier-based dive bomber, during an attack on a strongly defended enemy harbor in the vicinity of Formosa, on 12 October 1944. He flew for more than fifty miles under conditions of zero visibility. In complete disregard for personal safety, he participated in an attack which resulted in the sinking of five merchant ships, serious damage to another large ship and to a Naval dry-dock, three reinforced concrete warehouses and other harbor installations. Enemy anti-aircraft fire was so intense that two planes failed to return and eight other planes received battle damage. His aggressiveness, courage and skill were outstanding and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.