The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Richard Brothers (NSN: 347065), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-FOUR (VT-84), embarked in U.S.S. BUNKER HILL (CV-17), in an attack on the Tokyo area on 16 February 1945. As a member of a flight of 14 torpedo bombers, he participated in a coordinated glide bombing attack on a major Japanese aircraft assembly plant. Despite moderate, accurate anti-aircraft fire, and the constant threat of attack by enemy aircraft, he flew his plane to the assigned target and dropped his bombs on the main group of factory buildings, contributing materially to the extensive damage inflicted on the plant. His skill, determination and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.