Charles Raymond Blake, first lieutenant, Air Service, pilot, 7th Aviation Instruction Center. For extraordinary heroism in action near Lassigny, France, August 9, 1918. Lieut. Blake, with Second Lieut. Baric W. Porter, observer, while in a reconnoissance expedition at a low altitude far beyond the enemy lines, was attacked by five German battle planes. His observer was wounded at the beginning of the combat, but he maneuvered his plane so skillfully that the observer was able to shoot down one of their adversaries. By more skillful maneuvering he enabled his observer to fight off the remaining planes and returned safely to friendly territory. Residence at appointment: 17 Tower Street. Westerly, R. I.