The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Staff Sergeant Richard Oliver Gettys (ASN: 39164925), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Ball Turret Gunner on a B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 326th Bombardment Squadron, 92d Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 4 July 1943, against enemy ground targets at Nantes, France. During the approach, while over the target, and after leaving the target area, the airplane was repeatedly attacked by enemy fighter planes. Sergeant Gettys drove off many heavy attacks before and during the bomb run, thus materially aiding in the success of the mission. Over the target, a 20-mm. shell penetrated and exploded within the ball turret, inflicting critical and extremely painful wounds on Sergeant Gettys. In utter disregard for his critical wounds and failing strength, he remained at his post, firing his guns, turning away particularly numerous and determined attacks, and thereby probably saving his aircraft from destruction. It was only when Sergeant Gettys fell unconscious from loss of blood that other crew members learned of his condition. The heroism, skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Gettys reflect the highest credit upon himself and the armed forces of the United States.