The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Richard Carroll Bernier (ASN: 0-173583), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the Southwest Pacific Area. During the period from 21 February 1945 to 11 May 1945, he participated in eighteen flights, and two strikes, over enemy territory in the vicinity of operational enemy airfields, during which enemy opposition was probable and expected. His actions during this period were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.