The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Second Lieutenant (Air Corps) Richard J. Waters (ASN: 0-2009514), United States Army Air Forces, for outstanding aerial skill and courage while serving as lead bombardier of a flight of B-26 type aircraft of the 397th Bombardment Group (M), attacking an oil refinery in the area of Hanover, Germany, on 8 April 1945. Enemy fire over the target area was severe, but despite this danger, Lieutenant Waters guided his flight over the target and directed it in a series of brilliant attacks which completely destroyed the oil refinery. The superior leadership and determination evidenced by Lieutenant Waters on this occasion are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Army Air Forces.