The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Charles E. Blackman (NSN: 0-306157), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in operations against the enemy in the Ryukyu Islands during the period 1 April 1945 to 5 May 1945. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Blackman 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 a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Charles E. Blackman (NSN: 0-306157), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in operations against the enemy in the Ryukyu Islands during the period 6 May 1945 to 10 June 1945. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Blackman completed his fortieth flight 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.