The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Robert Brinick (NSN: 0-378516), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a carrier-based dive bomber in an attack against major units of the Imperial Japanese Fleet in the Inland Sea on 19 March 1945. Dropping his bombs at targets in Kure Naval Base although his plane was badly damaged by enemy anti-aircraft fire, he performance contributed greatly to the success of his squadron’s mission. His courage and devotion to duty in the face of enemy opposition were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.