Robert Polk Riordan

Colonel, U. S. Air Force

Silver Star

GENERAL ORDERS:
Headquarters, 8th Air Force, General Orders No. 520 (November 16, 1944)
CITATION:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Air Corps) Robert P. Riordan (ASN: 0-437878), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as Commander of a Combat Wing of the EIGHTH Air Force on a heavy bombardment mission over enemy territory, 22 February 1944.
Just after crossing the Channel, the formation directly behind him was seen to turn around, and shortly afterwards all escort fighters disappeared. Fully realizing the danger that lay ahead, Colonel Riordan, alone and unescorted, led his formation to the target. Withdrawing after successfully bombing their objective, the entire formation was subjected to a twenty minute running attack by ME-109 fighters. This was followed by thirty FW-190's, and from then on out to the coast, they were continually under relentless attack. The brilliant leadership, combat tactics and self possession displayed by Colonel Riordan, inspired all those flying with him and were responsible for a devastating blow being dealt the enemy's war effort.