RADM ROBERT E. RIERA, then Commander, for distinguishing himself by extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy fleet on 24 October 1944 and 25 October 1944 in the vicinity of the Philippine Islands. He searched out and located the enemy fleet and scored hits with his bombs on a battleship causing great damage. The following day he led his dive-bombing squadron and scored hits on an aircraft carrier. His courage, great determination, aggressiveness, and inspired leadership were in keeping with the highest tradition of the United States Naval Service.

RADM Riera resided in Florida.