The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Aviation Ordnanceman First Class Roy Hobson Blanton, Jr. (NSN: 5568651), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while participating in aerial flight. On *****, flying as ***** of a Navy Search Bomber, he was one of the flight crew that led a two-plane section into ***** to observe and photograph enemy shipping, airfields, and installations. Because of pending and forthcoming operations, intelligence of enemy strength and disposition in this area, particularly with regard to their heavy war vessels, was imperative. Despite heavy and continuous opposition from anti-aircraft fire and a vastly superior number of enemy planes, his plane persisted in its mission until this vital information was secured, and he assisted in fighting off repeated attacks from enemy planes, after his own aircraft was seriously damaged. The information thus gained was great value to the Allied forces, and his disregard for his own personal safety and gallantry and intrepidity in action were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.