The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Radioman Second Class James Joseph Burns (NSN: 2241023), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as gunner and radioman in a carrier-based dive bomber assigned to attack large Japanese Carrier Forces in the vicinity of the Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. Inspite of enemy air opposition and extremely intense and continuous anti-aircraft fire from enemy warships, he performed his duties skillfully during the attack and materially assisted the pilot in inflicting much damage to the enemy warships. His courage and skill were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.