The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade John Sumner McDonald (NSN: 0-263988), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a pilot of a carrier-based torpedo aircraft against a major unit of the enemy Fleet in the waters northeast of Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 25 October 1944. During this action, while on his second strike of the day, he skillfully maneuvered his aircraft in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire, pressing home his torpedo attack at close range against a Japanese battleship of the FUSO Class. His resolute attack did not obtain a hit only because the target, in a successful attempt to avoid his torpedo, changed course, committing itself, thereby allowing his squadron mates to obtain direct hits. His coolness under fire and his ability as an airman has been amply demonstrated in this and twenty-three other active combat missions. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.