The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Richard L. Blume, Jr. (MCSN: 0-7499), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Division Leader attached to a Marine Fighting Squadron operating in the British Solomon Islands and Bismarck Archipelago areas from 28 January to 15 March 1944. During this period, Major Blume led his division in numerous escort missions, combat air patrols, fighter sweeps and strafing attacks against Japanese airfields, shipping and shore installations, frequently encountering intense anti-aircraft fire and fighter plane opposition. While the air strip at Bougainville was under heavy and accurate enemy artillery fire, he participated in the air evacuation of the squadron’s planes to another airfield. Through his courage and skillful airmanship, he contributed materially to the success of all missions assigned and the successful neutralization of the enemy’s air power in the area. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.