John A. Brooks III

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John A. Brooks, III (O-23828), Lieutenant Colonel (Air Corps), U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Pilot of a P-51 Fighter Airplane in the 2d Scouting Force, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 9 February 1945, during an air mission in the European Theater of Operations. On this date Lieutenant Colonel Brooks and his wingman attacked over 100 German fighters and Colonel Brooks shot down 2 of them while completely stopping the German attack on the bomber fleet, saving hundreds of bomber crew lives. Lieutenant Colonel Brooks’ unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 8th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.