The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade [then Ensign] Richard B. Miles, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Southwest Pacific Area from December 21, 1944 to April 11, 1945. Completing his twentieth mission during this period, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Miles contributed materially to the success of his squadron. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.