(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Richard S. Deakins (ASN: 0-669875), United States Army Air Forces, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a P-47 and P-51 Fighter Pilot of the 318th Fighter Squadron, 325th Fighter Group, FIFTEENTH Air Force, in action against the enemy in aerial combat in the European Theater of Operations during World War II. The skillful and zealous manner in which he has sought out the enemy and destroyed him, his devotion to duty and courage under all conditions serve as an inspiration to his fellow flyers. His actions on all these occasions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.