On August 4th, 1944, Jack and the VT-13 squadron were tasked with attacking a Japanese supply convoy near the Bonin Islands (he denotes Chichijima). The Japanese had a rather large convoy that was poorly defended and quickly acquired by US forces. In three waves, plane after plane attacked the convoy sinking all but one of its cargo ships. During the second wave, Jack sunk a merchant ship with a single torpedo and won the Distinguished Flying Cross for his efforts.

From the commendation letter:

“For distinguishing himself by heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight as pilot of a carrier based torpedo bomber plane on 4 August 1944, in the vicinity of the Bonin Islands in the Central Pacific. On this date he took part in the aerial torpedo attack against enemy fleet units and merchant shipping. In the face of extremely intense and accurate naval anti-aircraft fire, he skillfully maneuvered his plane to a dangerously close range and obtained a direct hit with his torpedo upon a large Japanese cargo vessel, which was observed to sink shortly thereafter. His determination in pressing home this attack contributed materially to the destruction of many important enemy ships. His courage and skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”

• M. A. Mitscher, Vice Admiral, U.S. Navy