Army Air Corps M-O

MacDONALD, CHARLES H.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Charles H. MacDonald (0-22518), 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-38 Fighter Airplane in the 475th Fighter Group, FIFTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 7 December 1944, in the Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. On that date, Colonel MacDonald shot down THREE enemy aircraft in a single engagement. Colonel MacDonald'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.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 89 (1945)

MacDONALD, CHARLES H.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Cross to Charles H. MacDonald (0-22518), 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-38 Fighter Airplane in the 475th Fighter Group, FIFTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 25 December 1944, in the Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. On that date, Colonel MacDonald shot down THREE enemy aircraft in a single engagement. It was the second time in less than three weeks that he shot down three aircraft in a single mission. Colonel MacDonald'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.
Headquarters: U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 123 (1945)
Personal Awards: 2@ Distinguished Service Crosses (WWII)

MAGOFFIN, MORTON D. (POW)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Morton D. Magoffin (0-20847), 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-47 Fighter Airplane and Commanding Officer of the 362d Fighter Group, NINTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces in the European Theater of Operations during World War II. Colonel Magoffin's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 9th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 4 (1945)
Personal Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), 3@ Silver Stars (WWII)

*MAHONEY, JOHN F. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to John F. Mahoney (31312836), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Gunner on a B-24 Heavy Bomber in the 700th Bombardment Squadron, 445th Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in bombing missions from April through September 1944, against enemy ground targets in the European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Mahoney on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 8th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Forces-European Theater, General Orders No. 22 (1947)
Home Town: Connecticut

MAHONY, GRANT M. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Grant M. Mahony (0-025233), First Lieutenant (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-40 Fighter Airplane in the 3d Pursuit Squadron, 24th Pursuit Group, FAR EAST Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 10, 11, and 13 December 1941, during air missions over the Philippine Islands. First Lieutenant Mahony volunteered for a vital night mission in thick weather during a complete ground blackout. In the face of severed ground fire from strongly held positions, he secured information needed for a subsequently successful bombing attack on 10 December. On the following day, returning form a bombing mission near Legaspi in which he destroyed an enemy flying boat and strafed an enemy-held radio station, this pilot displayed exceptional courage in performing the highly dangerous feat of landing his plane with bombs hanging from an improperly functioning bomb release, in preference to bailing out. Again the following week, Lieutenant Mahony was flying over Legaspi at 13,000 feet when he encountered two Japanese pursuit planes. Suddenly his guns jammed, so he dived low with the Japanese on his tail. He realized he was helpless in the face of heavy machine gun fire, but observed that the Japanese were missing his plane and strafing their own troops. Lieutenant Mahony put his ship into a short climb, then drew the Japanese ships behind him again. This time he swooped right over the enemy ground troops and once more the enemy poured machine gun fire into their own men. First Lieutenant Mahony's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 48 (1941)
Home Town: Solano, California
Personal Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), Silver Star (WWII), 4@ Distinguished Flying Crosses, 4@ Air Medals, Purple Heart

MAHURIN, WALKER M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Walker M. Mahurin (0-659316/8658A), 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-47 Fighter Airplane in the 63d Fighter Squadron, 56th Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 4 October 1943, in the European Theater of Operations. On this date Captain Mahurin shot down THREE enemy aircraft in a single engagement. Captain Mahurin's 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.
Headquarters: European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 96 (1943)
Born: December 5, 1918 at Ann Arbor, Michigan
Home Town: Fort Wayne, Indiana
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Walker M. Mahurin (0-659316/8658A), 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-47 Fighter Airplane in the 63d Fighter Squadron, 56th Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 4 October 1943, in the European Theater of Operations. On this date Captain Mahurin shot down THREE enemy aircraft in a single engagement. Captain Mahurin's 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.
Headquarters: European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 96 (1943)
Born: December 5, 1918 at Ann Arbor, Michigan
Home Town: Fort Wayne, Indiana

*MANDERS, JOHN H. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to John H. Manders (0-784790), 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 B-25 Heavy Bomber in the 501st Bombardment Squadron, 345th Bombardment Group (M), FIFTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 30 January 1944, against enemy targets in the Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. The personal courage and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, displayed by Captain Manders on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 5th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 35 (1944)
Home Town: San Francisco, California

*MARETT, SAMUEL H. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Samuel H. Marett (0-22854), First Lieutenant (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-35 Fighter Airplane in the 34th Pursuit Squadron, 24th Pursuit Group, FAR EAST Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 10 December 1941, during an air mission against Japanese surface vessels at Vigan, Philippine Islands. On that date, First Lieutenant Marett was Pilot of a P-35 fighter in an attack on Japanese shipping and landing parties at Vigan, Philippine Islands. Following bombing by heavy bombers, Lieutenant Marett lead his squadron through a hail of anti-aircraft fire to strafe the enemy vessels and landing parties. In the performance of this mission, one of the enemy vessels exploded, destroying Lieutenant Marett's aircraft and killing him instantly. First Lieutenant Marett's unquestionable valor in aerial combat, at the cost of his life, is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 48 (1941)
Home Town: Fulton County, Georgia

*MARPE, FRANK C., JR. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Frank C. Marpe, Jr. (0-68454), First Lieutenant (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 720th Bombardment Squadron, 450th Bombardment Group (H), FIFTEENTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 5 April 1944, against enemy ground targets at Ploesti, Rumania. Lieutenant Marpe was serving as Pilot and Deputy Leader in a B-24 formation dispatched on an extremely hazardous and important mission to bomb marshalling yards and oil refineries at Ploesti, Rumania. The target was known to be defended by 144 heavy-caliber anti-aircraft guns and about 250 fighter aircraft. Immediately before taking off, a serious gasoline leak in the bomb bay was discovered which necessitated a speedy change to another airplane. In transferring equipment, two parachutes were left behind. Rather than turn back from the mission, Lieutenant Marpe gave his own parachute to a crew member while hasty plans were made for sharing parachutes in case of emergency. Approaching the target, the heroic pilot's bomber was attacked by two waves of fighters which riddled the aircraft and set it afire in the bomb bays and on the flight deck. Ordering his men to leave the doomed airplane, the pilot declined to carry out his plan to bail out with the engineer, and when last seen was struggling to keep his staggering aircraft in level flight so that the crew could jump safely. He died in the flaming crash of his bomber. The magnificent loyalty, dauntless courage, and supreme sacrifice of Lieutenant Marpe allowed members of his crew to save themselves. His personal courage and devotion to duty on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 15th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
War Department, General Orders No. 72 (August 28, 1945)
Home Town: Albert Lea, Minnesota

MARSHALL, LYNDON O.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Lyndon O. Marshall (0-793648), 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-40 Fighter Airplane in the 26th Fighter Squadron, 51st Fighter Group, FOURTEENTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 5 April 1944, in the China-Burma-India Theater of Operations. On that date, Captain Marshall shot down four enemy aircraft in a single engagement. Captain Marshall's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 14th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces-China/Burma/India, General Orders No. 137 (1944)
Home Town: Watkins Glen, New York

*MARTIN, ERNEST V. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Ernest V. Martin (32271998), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Waist Gunner on a B-24 Heavy Bomber in the 345th Bombardment Squadron, 98th Bombardment Group (H), NINTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 1 August 1943, against the Ploesti Oil Refineries in Rumania. During a long and hazardous attack against a vital enemy oil installation made at low-altitude by a formation of B-24 type aircraft, Staff Sergeant Martin acquitted himself with great skill as his aircraft flew through one of the most heavily defended areas of Europe. When the plane on which he served was severely damaged he continued on, in the face of almost insurmountable odds. Over the blazing target, Staff Sergeant Martin, with heroic calm and unflinching loyalty, remained steadfast by his guns until he was killed by enemy fire. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Martin on this occasion, at the cost of his life, exemplified the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 9th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: Ninth U.S. Army Air Force, General Orders No. 86 (1943)
Home Town: Cumberland County, New Jersey

MARTIN, JOHN C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John C. Martin, First Lieutenant (Air Corps), U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Co-Pilot of a B-24 Heavy Bomber in the 566th 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. During a long and hazardous attack against a vital enemy oil installation made at low-altitude by a formation of B-24 type aircraft, First Lieutenant Martin flew through heavy enemy fire against impossible odds, and despite heavy damage to his bomber, skillfully remained in control to divert his bomber for an emergency landing at Malta without the loss of a single man. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Martin on this occasion, even when confronted with practically certain destruction, exemplified the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 9th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: Ninth U.S. Army Air Force, General Orders No. 89 (1943)

MARTIN, KENNETH R. (POW)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Kenneth R. Martin (0-21608), 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 354th Fighter Group, NINTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 14 September 1944, during an air mission over Germany. Colonel Martin's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 9th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. (24 April 17, 1944)
Home Town: Kansas City, Missouri
Personal Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), 2@ Distinguished Flying Crosses, Prisoner of War Medal

MARTINSON, MEYNARD L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Meynard L. Martinson, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy in aerial combat against enemy forces on 12 February 1945, in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations. Staff Sergeant Martinson's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Air Forces-Mediterranean Theater of Operations, General Orders No. 42 (1945)

MASON, JOE LENNARD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Joe Lennard Mason (0-371856), 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 352d Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 8 May 1944. Colonel Mason's 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.
Headquarters: U.S. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 38 (1944)

*MATCHITT, RAY J. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Ray J. Matchitt (14025950), Private, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while in the Far East Ferry Command, in action against enemy forces on 19 February 1942, in the Southwest Pacific Area. Private Matchitt's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 40 (1942)
Home Town: Date County, Florida

*MATSON, REX E. (MIA-KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Rex E. Matson (6657964), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Gunner on a B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 93d Bombardment Squadron, 19th Bombardment Group (H), FIFTH Air Force, while participating in bombing missions on 6 and 7 August 1942, against enemy targets in the Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Matson on this occasion, at the cost of his life, have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 5th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 34 (September 15, 1942)
Home Town: Lafayette, Indiana
Personal Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), Silver Star (WWII), Air Medal, 2@ Purple Hearts

MATTE, JOSEPH Z.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Joseph Z. Matte (0-693146), First Lieutenant (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-47 Fighter Airplane in the 378th Fighter Squadron, 362d Fighter Group, NINTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 20 August 1944, in the European Theater of Operations. On that date, Lieutenant Matte shot down FOUR enemy aircraft in a single engagement. First Lieutenant Matte's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 9th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 97 (1944)

*MATTHEWS, JOHN E. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to John E. Matthews, Private First Class, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy in action against enemy forces in the Southwest Pacific Area of Operations, during World War II. Private First Class Matthews' unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 82 (1945)

*MAYES, HERBERT C. (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Herbert C. Mayes (0-406421), First Lieutenant (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-26 Medium Bomber of the 18th Reconnaissance Squadron, 22d Bombardment Group (M), FAR EAST Air Force (Detached), in aerial action against enemy surface forces on 4 June 1942, during an engagement near Midway Island. Lieutenant Mayes displayed extraordinary heroism during a torpedo-bombing mission against the Japanese Navy. The success of the mission was dependent entirely upon the skill, courageousness and unfaltering devotion to duty of crew members of the airplanes participating, who unhesitatingly entered into the attack at great personal risk to their lives in the face of concentrated gunfire of Japanese Naval forces and fighter planes. During this, the first torpedo attack ever carried out by Army Air Forces, the airplane on which Lieutenant Mayes was pilot, was lost. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Mayes on this occasion, at the cost of his life, have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: Hawaiian Department, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 117 (1942)
Home Town: San Francisco, California

McARTHUR, PAUL GRAHAM
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Paul Graham McArthur (0-659742), First Lieutenant (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-40 Fighter Airplane in the 87th Fighter Squadron, 79th Fighter Group, NINTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 10 June 1943, in the European Theater of Operations. On that date, Lieutenant McArthur shot down FOUR enemy aircraft in a single engagement. First Lieutenant McArthur's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 9th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: Ninth U.S. Army Air Force, General Orders No. 62 (1943)
Home Town: Reform, Alabama

McCABE, ERNEST J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Ernest J. McCabe, Second Lieutenant (Air Corps), U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy in action against enemy forces in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations during World War II. Second Lieutenant McCabe's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army-Mediterranean Theater of Operations, General Orders No. 68 (1946)

*McCALL, BEN J. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Ben J. McCall (0-672369), Second Lieutenant (Air Corps), U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as an Officer of a B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 548th Bombardment Squadron, 385th Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 13 November 1943, against enemy targets in the European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant McCall on this occasion, at the cost of his life, have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 8th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 11 (1944)
Home Town: Bexar County, Texas

*McCALLISTER, GARRETT H. (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Garrett H. McCallister (0-388997), Second Lieutenant (Air Corps), U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Co-Pilot of a B-26 Medium Bomber of the 18th Reconnaissance Squadron, 22d Bombardment Group (M), FAR EAST Air Force (Detached), in aerial action against enemy surface forces on 4 June 1942, during an engagement near Midway Island. Lieutenant McCallister displayed extraordinary heroism during a torpedo-bombing mission against the Japanese Navy. The success of the mission was dependent entirely upon the skill, courageousness and unfaltering devotion to duty of the crew members of the airplanes participating, who unhesitatingly entered into the attack at great personal risk to their lives in the face of concentrated gunfire of Japanese Naval forces and fighter planes. During this, the first torpedo attack ever carried out by Army Air Forces, the airplane on which Lieutenant McCallister was co-pilot was lost. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant McCallister on this occasion, at the cost of his life, have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: Hawaiian Department, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 117 (1942)
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

*McCALLUM, GERALD (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Gerald McCallum (0-388622), First Lieutenant (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-40 Fighter Airplane in the 17th Pursuit Squadron, 24th Pursuit Group, FAR EAST Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 25 February 1942, in the Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. First Lieutenant McCallum's unquestionable valor in aerial combat, at the cost of his life, is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 20 (1942)
Home Town: Lincoln Parish, Louisiana

*McCORMICK, JOHN B. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to John B. McCormick (0-661952), 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 B-24 Heavy Bomber in the 565th Bombardment Squadron, 389th Bombardment Group (H), NINTH Air Force (Attached), while participating in a bombing mission on 18 November 1943, against enemy targets in the European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Captain McCormick on this occasion, at the cost of his life, have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 9th Air Force (Attached), and the United States Army Air Forces.
Home Town: Onondaga County, New York
Personal Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), Silver Star (WWII), 2@ Air Medals, Purple Heart

McCULLAR, KENNETH D. (DNB)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Kenneth D. McCullar (0-393172), Major (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-17 Heavy Bomber in the 63d Bombardment Squadron, 43d Bombardment Group (H), FIFTH Air Force, while participating in bombing missions on 2 and 3 March 1943, against enemy targets at Rabaul. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Major McCullar on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 5th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 24 (1943)
Home Town: Panola County, Mississippi

*McCURDY, JIMMY E. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Jimmy E. McCurdy (34149971), Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Waist Gunner of a B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 351st Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 30 July 1943, against enemy ground targets at Kassel, Germany. On that date, the airplane in which Sergeant McCurdy was serving was knocked out of formation by enemy fighters, thereby becoming the target of concentrated attacks. During the air battle which followed, Sergeant McCurdy was mortally wounded by an exploding canon shell. Despite great pain and with complete disregard for his personal safety, Sergeant McCurdy stuck to his guns and fought the enemy until he collapsed. The extraordinary heroism in the face of death, coolness, and skill displayed by Sergeant McCurdy on this occasion, at the cost of his life, have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 8th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 75 (1943)
Home Town: Amarillo, Texas

McDANIEL, GORDON H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Gordon H. McDaniel (0-807583), First Lieutenant (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 318th Fighter Squadron, 325th Fighter Group, FIFTEENTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 14 March 1944, in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations. On this date First Lieutenant McDaniel destroyed five German FW-190 fighter aircraft to become an ACE in a single day. First Lieutenant McDaniel's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 15th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Air Forces-Mediterranean Theater of Operations, General Orders No. 52 (1945)

McELROY, JOSEPH G.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Joseph G. McElroy, Private First Class, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while with the 19th Bombardment Group (H), FAR EAST Air Force, in action against enemy forces on 8 December 1941, during the Japanese bombardment of the Philippine Islands. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Private First Class McElroy on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 48 (1941)

McFARLAND, KENTON D.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Kenton D. McFarland, First Lieutenant (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 409th Bombardment Squadron, 93d Bombardment Group (H), NINTH Air Force (Attached), while participating in a bombing mission on 1 August 1943, against the Ploesti Oil Refineries in Rumania. During a long and hazardous attack against a vital enemy oil installation made at low-altitude by a formation of B-24 type aircraft, First Lieutenant McFarland flew through heavy enemy fire against impossible odds, and then brought his crew safely back to base without the loss of a single man. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant McFarland on this occasion, even when confronted with practically certain destruction, exemplified the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 9th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: Ninth U.S. Army Air Force, General Orders No. 88 (1943)
Home Town: Sacramento, California

McGRATH, THOMAS J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Thomas J. McGrath, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy in action against enemy forces on 17 May 1943, in the European Theater of Operations. Staff Sergeant McGrath's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 48 (1943)

McGUIRE, THOMAS BUCHANAN, JR. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Thomas Buchanan McGuire, Jr. (0-437031), Major (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 431st Fighter Squadron, 475th Fighter Group, FIFTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces in December 1943, during air missions in the Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. During the period from 7 December to 26 December, Major McGuire shot down a total of TEN enemy aircraft. Major McGuire'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.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 2 (1945)
Born: August 1, 1920 at Ridgewood, New Jersey
Home Town: Sebring, Florida
Personal Awards: Medal of Honor (WWII), Distinguished Service Cross (WWII)

*McHENRY, WILLIAM STEWART (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to William Stewart McHenry (0-797159), Second Lieutenant (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, while participating in a bombing mission on 18 October 1943, against enemy targets in Burma. After his bomber was severely damaged on this date, Second Lieutenant McHenry skillfully controlled his airplane long enough for six members of the crew to bail out before a wing was ripped from the fuselage and his bomber crashed in flames. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant McHenry on this occasion, at the cost of his life, have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Forces-India/Burma Theater, General Orders No. 30 (1946)
Home Town: Newburgh, New York