Keith K. Compton

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Keith K. Compton, 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 B-24 Heavy Bomber in the 564th Bombardment Squadron, 389th Bombardment Group (H), NINTH Air Force (Attached), while participating in a bombing mission on 1 August 1943, against the Ploesti Oil Refineries in Rumania. Colonel Compton flew the lead airplane of the entire force of American heavy bombardment aircraft that attacked Ploesti on 1 August, 1943. In this operation, one of the longest mass bombing flights and one of the most daring low-level attacks in aviation history, Colonel Compton coolly and courageously maneuvered his force at tree-top level and in the face of blazing anti-aircraft fire and balloon barrages to a position from which it could bomb the target successfully. Colonel Compton’s action in this perilous situation was one of utmost heroism and superb airmanship. His personal courage and devotion to duty have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 9th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.