Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade James Arthur Bryce (NSN: 0-125187), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Fighter Pilot in Fighting Squadron TWENTY-TWO (VF-22), in action against enemy forces on 21 January 1945. As the pilot of a carrier-based fighter plane assigned to combat air patrol over our forces he led his division in an attack against an attacking force of a superior number of enemy fighter planes. Maneuvering his plane expertly and with complete disregard for his own safety he shot down three of the enemy planes and probably destroyed one more. As a result of this action an enemy bombing attack on our forces was averted. His coolness, skill, and courage were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade

    Batallion:

    Fighter Squadron 22 (VF-22)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Cowpens (CVL-25)

    Action Date:

    November 19, 1944

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade James Arthur Bryce (NSN: 0-125187), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Fighter Pilot in Fighting Squadron TWENTY-TWO (VF-22), embarked in U.S.S. COWPENS (CVL-25), and assigned to a search and attack mission on 19 November 1944. In the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire he made repeated attacks on an enemy convoy causing serious damage to one large ship. On his last attack his own plane was hit in the engine and cockpit subsequently forcing him to land in enemy waters. His courage, skill and devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.