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 Ralph Alford (NSN: 0-315127), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in operations against the enemy from 16 February 1945 to 18 May 1945. As pilot of a carrier-based fighter plane he participated in twenty combat missions in the vicinity of Tokyo and Kyushu, Japan, the Nansei Shoto, and the Nanpo Shoto. During these flights he performed his assigned duties with courage and determination which were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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Awards Received
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Distinguished Flying Cross
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Ralph Alford (NSN: 0-315127), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a carrier-based fighter plane in a patrol over Kikai Shima in the Nansei Shoto on 12 April 1945. The flight was attacked by approximately fifteen enemy fighters as it was recovering from a strafing run on anti-aircraft positions on the island. During the engagement that followed he shot down two enemy planes, both of which crashed into the water as a result of his fire. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.