Richard O. Gettys

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Richard O. Gettys, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as 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. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Gettys on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 8th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.