The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Radioman First Class John Emmett Bunch (NSN: 6160264), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as radio and radar operator of a carrier-based Torpedo Plane in an attack against the enemy fleet in the vicinity of the Philippine Islands on 26 October 1944. In the face of intense anti-aircraft fire from virtually the entire force he calmly and accurately furnished target ranges to his pilot enabling him to make a successful drop resulting in his squadron’s obtaining several torpedo hits on an enemy cruiser leaving her in a sinking condition. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.