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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade] Richard Sims Bates (NSN: 0-278300), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron THIRTEEN (VT-13), attached to the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), during action against enemy Japanese Fleet units in the Battle for Leyte Gulf, on 24 October 1944. A daring and intrepid airman, Lieutenant Bates dauntlessly braved withering hostile anti-aircraft fire to launch a smashing aerial torpedo attack against the enemy and, by his relentless determination and indomitable courage, succeeded in scoring a devastating hit on a Japanese battleship. His superb skill as an airman, resolute fighting spirit and brilliant combat tactics throughout this period of intense aerial activity reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Bates and the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade

    Batallion:

    Torpedo Squadron 13 (VT-13)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Franklin (CV-13)

    Action Date:

    October 12, 1944

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Richard Sims Bates (NSN: 0-278300), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a carrier-based Torpedo Bomber plane on 12 October 1944, in the vicinity of Formosa Island and in the Western Pacific. On this date, he took part in a glide bombing attack against enemy merchant shipping. In the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire from naval and shore batteries, he dived his plane to a dangerously low altitude and scored a direct hit on a medium cargo ship. As a result of his attack the ship was set afire and heavily damaged. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.