John W. Mitchell

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John W. Mitchell (0-396296/3741A), Captain (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-38 Fighter Airplane in the 339th Fighter Squadron, 347th Fighter Group, FIFTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces during the period from October 1942 through February 1943. During this period Captain Mitchell shot down a total of eight enemy aircraft. Captain Mitchell’s unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 5th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John W. Mitchell, Major, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism while serving as Pilot of a P-38 fighter airplane in the 339th Fighter Squadron, 37th Fighter Group, THIRTEENTH Air Force, U.S. Army Air Forces, attached to a Marine Fighter Command in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands on 18 April 1943. Major Mitchell was commander of a dangerously long interception flight, leading his formation in destroying two Japanese bombers and six enemy fighters. His brilliant airmanship and determined fighting spirit throughout a daring and vital mission were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Armed Services.