The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Corps of Engineers), [then Sergeant, Army Air Corps] Richard E. Oliver, United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as a member of the 14th Reconnaissance Squadron, 19th Bombardment Group (Heavy), Far East Air Forces, in action on 14 February 1942. As a Bombardier on a B-17E type aircraft, Colonel Oliver demonstrated fortitude and professional skill on a bombing mission. After the plane departed from Townsville, Australia, shortly after midnight, it arrived over the Japanese base of Rabaul, on the northeastern portion of New Britain at daybreak in the midst of heavy anti-aircraft fire. Although one bombing run was made over the ships in the harbor, faulty racks prevented the release of the bombs. Despite the sight of pursuing enemy aircraft, Colonel Oliver requested the pilot to make another run over the target which resulted in the release of all but two of the 600-pound bombs. As the ship was leaving the target area, it was attacked by eight zero fighters. Colonel Oliver immediately manned his nose gun and prevented head-on attacks. After the enemy withdrew from the 30-minute engagement and a fuel shortage forced the pilot to land in the swamps of New Guinea, Colonel Oliver played a primary role in maintaining the spirits of the crew during a prolonged ordeal. For five weeks, while they endured hunger, thirst, and malaria, he constantly encouraged the crew members as they worked their way back to their unit. Colonel Oliver’s conspicuous gallantry in action is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Corps.