The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Radioman Second Class James Francis Burns (NSN: 7064256), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against enemy carrier forces on 24 October 1944 as a rear seat gunner. While on a search mission he and his pilot discovered an enemy force consisting of at least three aircraft carriers and other enemy warships and successfully reported them, which message was of utmost importance. Following this they climbed for altitude and made a one-plane bombing attack upon the enemy force in the face of air opposition and extremely intense anti-aircraft fire. Once pulled out from the dive they were jumped by six enemy fighters and as they approached a cloud in which they were seeking cover he shot down an enemy fighter plane which was attempting to make a run on them. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.