The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Robert Warren Blakeslee (NSN: 0-278524), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a carrier-based fighter aircraft on 14 October 1944. While on a patrol flight near his Task Group, he observed a large formation of enemy twin-engine torpedo planes and low-level bombers on a course approaching his Task Force. He immediately and aggressively attacked this enemy formation without thought of personal safety, and destroyed two aircraft. Thus he skillfully caused great damage to the enemy and successfully broke up their attack which might otherwise have inflicted great damage upon his Task Force. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.