MAJOR JAMES B. TAPP, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action during an air strike against Tokyo, Japan, on 7 April 1945. As pilot of a fighter type aircraft during the first fighter-escorted B-29 mission over the Japanese Empire, Major Tapp displayed such heroism as to set him apart from his comrades. As the bombers approached the target, great numbers of enemy aircraft rose to intercept the formation. Major Tapp unhesitatingly engaged a large group of enemy fighter planes, destroying one and dispersing the others. Returning to the escort position, he observed a lone B-29 with two engines shot away, under attack by an enemy fighter. Instantly, Major Tapp sped to the bomber’s defense and destroyed the attacking plane. The crippled bomber, with its small escort, was then attacked by a flight of eight enemy aircraft. Displaying extraordinary courage and airmanship, Major Tapp engaged the numerically superior enemy, destroying one and routing the others, preventing further damage to the distressed bomber. After the B-29’s had released their bombs over the target, Major Tapp sighted another enemy aircraft. Giving chase, he again engaged the enemy to destroy his fourth enemy plane in approximately twelve minutes of combat. Major Tapp’s outstanding display of courage aided the B-29 aircraft in accomplishing their mission, and reflects great credit upon himself and the Army Air Forces.