James R. Cockriel

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James R. Cockriel, Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Crewman on a B-24 Heavy Bomber in the 700th Bombardment Squadron, 445th Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in bombing missions from April to September 1944, in the European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Cockriel throughout this period have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 8th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.