Video

Video by Cpl. Cody Lemons

Aviation Medal of Honor – Capt. Richard Fleming, June, 1942

Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point

Feb. 27, 2018 | 2:10

After his squadron commander was shot down during the initial attack upon an enemy aircraft carrier, Capt. Fleming led the remainder of the division with such fearless determination that he dove his own plane to a low altitude of 400 feet before releasing his bomb. His aircraft was hit 179 times during the attack, but escaped with only two minor wounds. The following day, after less than four hours of sleep, Fleming led the second division of his squadron in an assault upon a Japanese battleship. During an approach Fleming’s aircraft was struck and set afire but continued his attack. He released his bomb at 500 feet to score a near-miss on the stern of his target, then crashed into the sea in flames. His dauntless perseverance and unyielding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.