The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Staff Sergeant James Lafayette Frazier (ASN: 20416658), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Gunner of a B-17 Heavy Bomber of the 381st Bombardment Group, EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a heavy bombardment mission over enemy occupied territory, 24 August 1943. During the mission his airplane became separated from its formation and was attacked by a large number of enemy airplanes. Sergeant Frazier was severely wounded by the explosion of a cannon shell, which also destroyed his oxygen system and damaged one of his machine guns. Disregarding the pain and shock of his wounds, Sergeant Frazier remained at his post. He was wounded a second time, but still remained at his post, firing at enemy planes, destroying one and repelling their attacks. Only when danger of enemy attack had passed did Sergeant Frazier accept first aid, and then he assisted in administering first aid to other members of the crew until he collapsed. Sergeant Frazier’s repeated acts of bravery and gallantry reflect great credit upon himself and the armed forces of the United States.