The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Herbert James Valentine (MCSN: 0-10561/632207), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Pilot of a Fighter Plane in Marine Fighting Squadron THREE HUNDRED TWELVE (VMF-312), during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Ryukyu Islands Area, from 18 to 23 May 1945. Completing his fortieth mission during this period, Captain Valentine contributed materially to the success of his squadron and to the infliction of damage on enemy aircraft, airfields, gun emplacements, radio stations, vehicles, caves, ammunition dumps and troops. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.