The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Richard Buckner Blaydes (NSN: 325662), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Fighter Pilot in Fighting Squadron TWO (VF-2), in action in the Pacific Area during the period 27 July to 7 September 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Blaydes completed twenty flights in a combat area where enemy anti-aircraft fire was expected to be effective or where enemy aircraft patrols usually occurred. His conduct throughout has distinguished him among those performing duties of the same character.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Richard Buckner Blaydes (NSN: 325662), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a carrier-based fighter aircraft in Fighting Squadron TWO (VF-2). On 20 June 1944, he took part in the long range attack on major units of the enemy fleet, west of the Mariana Islands, and carried out his bombing and strafing mission against the enemy warships, returning to his base after dark. His courage and aggressive spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.