The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant David Allen Block (NSN: 0-104374), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a Navy carrier Torpedo Bomber on a strike mission over Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 2 March 1945. As Air Coordinator he directed and participated in two damaging attacks on enemy artillery positions. As a result of his skill in observing and designating pin-point targets, all aircraft in his flight obtained devastating bomb hits on the target. In a second attack, he led a rocket and strafing run on an enemy strong point, providing vital air support for our advancing ground troops. Though dangerously exposing himself to enemy anti-aircraft fire he pressed home his attacks with determination and with total disregard for his own safety. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

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 David Allen Block (NSN: 0-104374), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in military operations against the enemy in the Okinawa Gunto Area from 25 March 1945 to 25 April 1945. Lieutenant Block completed fifteen 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.