Richard Liford Corey

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard Liford Corey, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-TWO (VB-82), embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action against major units of the enemy Japanese Fleet in the East China Sea near Kyushu, Japan, on 7 April 1945. Participating in the initial bombing strike, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Corey braved intense anti-aircraft fire and adverse weather conditions to press home a determined attack and, by his courage and airmanship, contributed materially to the damage inflicted on an enemy cruiser. His aggressive fighting spirit and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 0592 (July 4, 1945)