The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant John T. Brooks, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Patrol Plane Commander of a Photographic airplane in reconnaissance over the China Coast with no previous information as to enemy defenses or installations in 1945. By remaining over the area for a prolonged period of time, he aided in obtaining valuable, large scale aerial photographic coverage in an area where no recent coverage had been made. His outstanding performance of duty was an inspiration to all with whom he served and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.