The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Staff Sergeant John L. Croft, United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while serving as a combat crew member on mission 311 over enemy occupied territory on 26 March 1945. Displaying great courage and skill, he volunteered to go into the bomb bay without a parachute and with great danger to his life, managed to kick live bombs loose when they failed to release over the target This aided in the successful completion of this mission and his actions are an inspiring example for his fellow flyers. The courage, coolness and exceptional skill displayed by Sergeant Croft on this occasion reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.