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 Technical Sergeant John J. Cunningham (ASN: 34881701), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving on a B-29 Heavy Bomber of the 871st Bombardment Squadron, 497th Bombardment Group, TWENTIETH Air Force, on a mission the Masashino Plant of the Nakajima Aircraft Company, Tokyo, Japan, on 7 April 1945. The flight was accomplished during daylight hours over a heavily defended target and at a low altitude. Although one engine was inoperative from damage by anti-aircraft fire and in spite of the closely pressed fighter attacks their aircraft successfully bombed the primary target and accomplished the hazardous flight to home base. His display of his professional skill, devotion to duty and courage reflect the highest credit on himself and the Army Air Forces.