The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Arvid W. Blackmun (MCSN: 0-9419), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot in a Marine Scout Bombing Squadron in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands Area during the period from 1 February 1943 to 2 March 1943, from 15 April 1943 to 1 May 1943, and from 1 August 1943 to 8 September 1943. In three attacks against enemy Japanese task forces, consisting respectively of 20, 18 and 20 destroyers, Captain Blackmun, in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire and determined enemy fighter opposition, courageously dived his plane to a perilously low altitude before releasing his bombs scoring two near misses and one direct hit. As a result of these attacks four destroyers were sunk and three severely damaged, one of which was observed dead in the water. On the remaining attacks, which were against enemy installations on Munda and Vila airdromes and on Rekata Bay, Santa Isabel Island, Captain Blackmun scored hits on the runways, supply dumps, gun positions, and bivouac areas, inflicting serious damage and causing many casualties among enemy personnel. His outstanding courage and unyielding determination contributed immeasurably to the success of these missions, reflecting great credit upon his loyal devotion to duty and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.