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(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Richard Lear Alexander (ASN: 0-885165), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy as a P-39 and P-51 Fighter Pilot of the 2d Fighter Squadron, 52d Fighter Group, in action against the enemy in aerial combat in the European Theater of Operations His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army Air Forces.

Awards Received

  • Prisoner of War Medal

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Air Corps)

    Batallion:

    2d Fighter Squadron

    Regiment:

    52d Fighter Group

    Division:

    Prisoner of War (Germany)

    Action Date:

    May 24, 1944 – May 1945
    NARA Database: Records of World War II Prisoners of War, created, 1942 – 9860

    First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Richard Lear Alexander (ASN: 0-885165), United States Army Air Forces, was mistakenly shot down by an American B-24 gunner during a mission on 24 May 1944. Captured by German forces, he was held as a Prisoner of War until his return to U.S. Military control at the end of hostilities in May 1945.

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Air Corps)

    Batallion:

    2d Fighter Squadron

    Regiment:

    52d Fighter Group

    Action Date:

    May 24, 1944

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Richard Lear Alexander (ASN: 0-885165), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as pilot of a P-51 type aircraft. On 24 May 1944 Lieutenant Alexander participated as escort to heavy bombers attacking enemy installations in Austria. Turning from the target after a highly successful bombing run the bomber formation was attacked from the rear by five (5) enemy fighters. With complete disregard for the overwhelming odds Lt. Alexander immediately turned into the enemy aircraft forcing them to break off their attacks. In the ensuing engagement he singled out one (1) enemy fighter and through outstanding combat skill he succeeded in destroying it. Rejoining his formation he escorted the bombers safely to base without loss. By his outstanding courage, combat proficiency and devotion to duty together with personal combat record of three (3) enemy aircraft destroyed and over sixty five (65) successful missions against the enemy Lieutenant Alexander has upheld the highest traditions of the Military service thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States of America.