Army Air Corps T-Z - Home of Heroes

World War II - Distinguished Service Cross - Army Air Corps

There are 5,600 recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross during World War II.

Listed here are the 762 Air Force recipients who received the Air Force Cross, and their citations, alphabetically by last name.

* Indicates Killed in Action (KIA), Missing in Action (MIA), Prisoner of War (POW), or Died Non-Battle (DNB)

A-C D-G H-L M-O P-S T-Z

TALBOTT, CARLOS MAURICE

TALBOTT, CARLOS MAURICE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Carlos Maurice Talbott (0-25797), 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 397th Fighter Squadron, 368th Fighter Group, NINTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 11 September 1944, during an air mission over in the European Theater of Operations. On that date, Captain Talbott found his squadron of P-47 Thunderbolt fighter planes outnumbered three to one by German fighters over Belgium. The Luftwaffe fighters were flying at 20,000 feet, well above their intended American targets, and had positioned themselves to block the return to the base of the Thunderbolts, which were low on fuel and ammunition. Captain Talbott ended up alone at 15,000 feet after losing his element leader and wingman, but he still downed two German fighters and disrupted the enemy formation's attack before his plane was shot down. As Captain Talbott parachuted to the ground, he was amazed to see the four pursuing Luftwaffe pilots salute him before flying away. Captain Talbott'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)
Born: January 28, 1920 at Charleston, Illinois
Home Town: Charleston, Illinois

TAYLOR, KENNETH MARLAR

TAYLOR, KENNETH MARLAR
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Kenneth Marlar Taylor, 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 P-40 Fighter Airplane in the 47th Pursuit Squadron, 18th Pursuit Group, HAWAIIAN Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 7 December 1941, in action over the Island of Oahu, Territory of Hawaii, and waters adjacent thereto. When surprised by a heavy air attack by Japanese forces on Wheeler Field and vicinity at approximately 8 a.m., Lieutenant Taylor left Wheeler Field and proceeded by automobile under fire, to Haleiwa Landing Field, a distance of approximately ten miles, where the planes of his squadron were stationed. He immediately, on his own initiative, took off for the purpose of attacking the invading forces, without first obtaining information as to the number or type of planes in attacking forces, and proceeded to his initial point over Barbers Point. At take-off time his plane was equipped with thirty-caliber machineguns only. Upon arrival over Barbers Point, he observed a formation of approximately twelve planes over Ewa, about 1,000 feet below and ten miles away. Accompanied by only one other pursuit plane, he immediately attacked this enemy formation and shot down two enemy planes. No more enemy planes in sight, he proceeded to Wheeler to refuel and replenish ammunition. Reloading completed, but ammunition boxes not removed, a second wave of enemy planes attacked, approaching directly toward him at low altitude. Although advised not to go up again, Lieutenant Taylor made a quick take-off ending in a chandelle, thereby saving his plane as he escaped from a superior force of eight to ten planes by climbing into clouds. Lieutenant Taylor's initiative, presence of mind, coolness under fire against overwhelming odds in his first battle, expert maneuvering of his plane, and determined action contributed to a large extent toward driving off this sudden, unexpected attack. Second Lieutenant Taylor's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the Hawaiian Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
War Department, General Orders No. 2 (1942)
Home Town: Hominy, Oklahoma

*TAYLOR, ROBERT L. (KIA)

*TAYLOR, ROBERT L. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Robert L. Taylor (0-700576), First 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-26 Medium Bomber in the 558th Bombardment Squadron, 387th Bombardment Group (M), NINTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 25 January 1945, against enemy targets in European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Taylor 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, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 142 (1945)
Home Town: Brooke County, West Virginia

*TENNILLE, WILLIAM G., JR. (KIA)

*TENNILLE, WILLIAM G., JR. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to William G. Tennille, Jr. (0-396485), 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-25 Medium Bomber in the 17th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 71st Reconnaissance Group, FIFTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 8 June 1944, against enemy warships in Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. Major Tennille's airplane was hit and badly damaged by enemy fire while attacking a large destroyer. Despite the damage to his airplane, he held his course, his bomber trailing fire, until he crashed into the enemy vessel. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Major Tennille 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: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 12 (1945)
Home Town: Winston-Salem, North Carolina

THOMAS, JAY P.

THOMAS, JAY P.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Jay P. Thomas, 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-17 Heavy Bomber in the 72d Bombardment Squadron, 5th Bombardment Group (H), THIRTEENTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 1 February 1943, against enemy targets in the Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Captain Thomas on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 13th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 72 (1943)

*THORNBROUGH, GEORGE W. (KIA)

*THORNBROUGH, GEORGE W. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to George W. Thornbrough (0-22400), 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-26 Medium Bomber in the 73d Bombardment Squadron, 28th Bombardment Group (C), ELEVENTH Air Force, while participating in an air mission on 4 June 1942, against enemy targets in the Territory of Alaska. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Captain Thornbrough on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 11th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: Alaska Defense Command, General Orders No. 67 (1942)
Home Town: Kearney County, Kansas

THORNELL, JOHN F., JR.

THORNELL, JOHN F., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John F. Thornell, Jr. (0-797743), 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 328th Fighter Squadron, 352d Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 8 May 1944, in the European Theater of Operations. On this date First Lieutenant Thornell shot down three German BF-109 aircraft. First Lieutenant Thornell'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. 44 (1944)
Born: April 21, 1921 at Stoughton, Massachusetts
Home Town: Walpole, Massachusetts

TIBBETS, PAUL W., JR.

TIBBETS, PAUL W., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Paul W. Tibbets, Jr., 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-29 Very Heavy Bomber in the 393d Bombardment Squadron, 509th Composite Group (VH), TWENTIETH Air force, while participating in a bombing mission on 6 August 1945, over Japan. On this date Colonel Tibbets dropped the first atomic bomb over the city of Hiroshima, Japan. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Tibbets on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 20th Air force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Strategic Air Forces, General Orders No. 15 (1945)
Born: at Quincy, Illinois
Home Town: Quincy, Illinois

*TIDWELL, BILLY M. (KIA)

*TIDWELL, BILLY M. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Billy M. Tidwell (14129923), 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 333d Bombardment Squadron, 94th Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 11 April 1944, against enemy targets in the European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Tidwell 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: U.S. Army Air Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 79 (1946)
Home Town: Tishomingo County, Mississippi

*TIEDEMANN, JOHN R. (MIA-KIA)

*TIEDEMANN, JOHN R. (MIA-KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to John R. Tiedemann (0-1166634), First Lieutenant (Air Corps), U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Navigator of a B-24 Heavy Bomber in the 389th Bombardment Group, EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 25 December 1944, against enemy targets in the European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Tiedemann 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: U.S. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 29 (1945)
Home Town: San Mateo, California

TOMPKINS, FREDERICK L.

TOMPKINS, FREDERICK L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Frederick L. Tompkins, First 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 FIFTEENTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations during World War II. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Tompkins 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.
Headquarters: U.S. Army-Mediterranean Theater of Operations, General Orders No. 38 (1944)
Home Town: Minot, North Dakota

*TOOMEY, WINSTON M. (KIA)

*TOOMEY, WINSTON M. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Winston M. Toomey (37297949), 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 407th Bombardment Squadron, 92d Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 14 October 1943, against enemy targets at Schweinfurt, Germany. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Toomey 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.
War Department, General Orders No. 36 (1944)
Home Town: Porter County, South Dakota

*TRAUTH, LEO J., JR. (KIA)

*TRAUTH, LEO J., JR. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Leo J. Trauth, Jr. (0-2064161), 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 on 10 January 1945, in the European Theater of Operations. Second Lieutenant Trauth'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 and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 34 (1945)
Home Town: Campbell County, Kentucky

TRAVIS, ROBERT F.

TRAVIS, ROBERT F.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Robert F. Travis, Brigadier General, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 41st Bombardment Wing, EIGHTH Air Force, while directing bombing missions from 31 August 1943 through 21 September 1944, against enemy targets in the European Theater of Operation. The gallant leadership, personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Brigadier General Travis 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. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 87 (1944)

*TRIMINGHAM, CHARLES E. (KIA)

*TRIMINGHAM, CHARLES E. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Charles E. Trimingham (0-727282), 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-17 Bomber in the 65th Bombardment Squadron, 43d Bombardment Group (H), FIFTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 26 June 1943, against enemy forces over Vunakanau Aerodrome, near Rabaul, New Britain. After skillfully flying his heavy aircraft through unavoidable thunderstorms, icing conditions, and zero visibilities, the target was tenaciously attacked in the face of intense enemy fire. The bombing run was precise and, as a result, nine enemy bombers were set on fire. Although his mission was accomplished, Lieutenant Trimingham remained in the target area to assist the remainder of the squadron to attack and get safely away. By making numerous runs over the enemy radar station and dropping fragmentation bombs, the enemy was confused and attention attracted from the striking force. When his airplane was attacked by heavily armed night fighters, one of which was shot down and others dispersed, the copilot was killed and Lieutenant Trimingham mortally wounded, dying at the controls of his disabled aircraft while attempting to bring the airplane and crew back to safety. Through his inspiring gallantry and heroic action displayed by Second Lieutenant Trimingham 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.
Department of the Army, General Orders No. 60 (September 15, 1948)
Home Town: Monterey, California

TROUT, CHESTER E. (KIA)

TROUT, CHESTER E. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Chester E. Trout (0-421145), 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-39 Fighter Airplane in the 40th Fighter Squadron, 35th Fighter Group, FAR EAST Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 11 July 1942, in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations. First Lieutenant Trout'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. 16 (1943)
Home Town: Oregon City, Oregon

TROY, EDWARD P. (POW)

TROY, EDWARD P. (POW)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Edward P. Troy, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Tail Gunner of a B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 323d Bombardment Squadron, 91st Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 17 August 1943, against enemy targets near Regensburg, Germany. Just beyond the German border two sections of enemy Focke-Wulf fighter airplanes took Staff Sergeant Troy's bomber under fire both in the front and the back. The starboard engines were hit and the aircraft started to tremble to such an extent the pilot had to switch them off. Staff Sergeant Troy was at the back of the aircraft as the Tail Gunner, and reported that one of his .50 machine guns was out of order. The next contact the rudder was hit by some 20-mm. grenades and the tailgunner was severely injured by flying shell splinter. In spite of severe injuries Staff Sergeant Troy kept his position to defend it. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Troy 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. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 11 (1944)
Home Town: Houston, Texas

TRUE, CLINTON U.

TRUE, CLINTON U.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Clinton U. True, 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 B-25 Medium Bomber in the 345th Bombardment Group (M), FIFTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 18 October 1943, against enemy targets at Rabaul. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Colonel True 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. 2 (1944)

TRULUCK, JOHN H., JR.

TRULUCK, JOHN H., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John H. Truluck, Jr. (0-382640), 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 8 March 1944, in the European Theater of Operations. On that date, in aerial combat, Captain Truluck shot down one enemy airplane. Captain Truluck'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. 31 (1944)

*TUBMAN, THOMAS J. (KIA)

*TUBMAN, THOMAS J. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Thomas J. Tubman (0-827994), 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-17 Heavy Bomber in the 773d Bombardment Squadron, 463d Bombardment Group (H), FIFTEENTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 24 March 1945, against enemy targets in the European Theater of Operations. On that date, during a combat mission to Berlin, Germany, Lieutenant Tubman skillfully maneuvered his burning aircraft in level flight in order that his crew might escape. In delaying his departure from the flaming airplane until first aid had been given to a wounded crew member, Lieutenant Tubman sacrificed his own chance for safety and was killed when the aircraft exploded. The technical skill, superior leadership, and heroic conduct displayed by Lieutenant Tubman 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 15th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Department of the Army, General Orders No. 36 (August 4, 1949)
Home Town: Riverside, Rhode Island

TUFTY, IVER O.

TUFTY, IVER O.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Iver O. Tufty, 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-17 Heavy Bomber in the 324th Bombardment Squadron, 91st Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 30 November 1944, against enemy targets in the European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Tufty 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. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 34 (1945)

TURNER, WILLIAM LEROY (KIA)

TURNER, WILLIAM LEROY (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William Leroy Turner (0-421146), 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 P-40 Fighter Airplane in the 17th Pursuit Squadron, 24th Pursuit Group, FAR EAST Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 7 February 1942, during an air mission over Den Pasar Airport, Bali, Netherlands East Indies. When information of the approach of hostile airplanes was received soon after this flight had landed and while the planes were being serviced, the flight leader ordered those planes which had been refilled with gasoline to patrol over the airfield. When the seven planes in the air were attacked by more than three times their number of enemy fighters, Lieutenant Turner immediately took off and joined his comrades, although his plane had been only partly refilled. In the ensuing air battle he destroyed one enemy fighter. He continued the fight until his gasoline supply was exhausted, after which he landed his plane safely. Second Lieutenant Turner'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: South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 25 (1942)

UNDERWOOD, CAROL E.

UNDERWOOD, CAROL E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Carol E. Underwood, First 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 on 11 April 1945, in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations. First Lieutenant Underwood'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. 71 (1945)

URSO, JAMES D.

URSO, JAMES D.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James D. Urso (0-737904), 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-61 Night Fighter Airplane in the 416th Night Fighter Squadron, TWELFTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 22 April 1945, in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations. Major Urso's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 12th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Air Forces-Mediterranean Theater of Operations, General Orders No. 71 (1945)

VAN DEVENTER, COWELL (MIA-KIA)

VAN DEVENTER, COWELL (MIA-KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Cowell Van Deventer (0-885257), 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 410th Fighter Squadron, 373d Fighter Group, NINTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 8 July 1944, in the European Theater of Operations. Captain Van Deventer'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. 69 (1944)
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri
Personal Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), Distinguished Flying Cross, 6@ Air Medals, Purple Heart

*VAN NESS, JAMES (KIA)

*VAN NESS, JAMES (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to James Van Ness (12049940), Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Flight Engineer and 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, Technical Sergeant Van Ness acquitted himself with great skill as his aircraft flew through one of the most heavily defended areas of Europe. Over the blazing target, Technical Sergeant Van Ness, with heroic calm and unflinching loyalty, remained steadfast by his guns. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Technical Sergeant Van Ness 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: Passaic County, New Jersey

VANCE, PAUL W.

VANCE, PAUL W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Paul W. Vance, First 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 390th Bombardment Group, EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 10 October 10, 1943, against enemy targets in the European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Vance 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: European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 9 (1944)

VAUGHAN, WILLIAM

VAUGHAN, WILLIAM
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William Vaughan, Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Radio Operator of a B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 65th Bombardment Squadron, 43d Bombardment Group (H), FIFTH Air Force, in aerial action against enemy forces on 16 June 1943, during a Photo-Reconnaissance air mission over Bougainville Island. Sergeant Vaughan was a member of a volunteer bomber crew which undertook an important and dangerous photo mapping mission over the heavily defended enemy base at Buka. Just before the photographing was completed, about twenty enemy fighters attacked. The bomber was extensively damaged and five of the crew were seriously wounded. After a forty-five minute running fight, in which five enemy planes were destroyed and two damaged, the bomber was flown safely to its base five hundred and eighty miles away. Sergeant Vaughn showed admirable skill and determined courage on this voluntary mission, which secured information of great value in subsequent operations. His 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. 66 (1943)

VIA, CHARLES ASHLAND, JR.

VIA, CHARLES ASHLAND, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Charles Ashland Via, Jr., 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-17 Heavy Bomber in the 418th Bombardment Squadron, 100th Bombardment Group (H), 8th Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 8 October 1943, against enemy targets near Bremen, Germany in the European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Via 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: European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 96 (1943)
Home Town: Clifton Forge, Virginia

VIA, JAMES E. (MIA-KIA)

VIA, JAMES E. (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James E. Via (6296877), Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Bombardier and Gunner on 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. Sergeant Via 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 own lives in the face of concentrated gunfire of the Japanese Naval forces and fighter planes. During this, the first torpedo attack ever carried out by the Army Air Forces, the airplane on which Sergeant Via was bombardier and gunner, was lost. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Via 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: Happy, Texas

VILLAMOR, JESUS A.

VILLAMOR, JESUS A.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Jesus A. Villamor (0-888072), 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-26 Fighter Airplane in the 6th Pursuit Squadron, Philippine Army Air Corps, attached to the FAR EAST Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces on 10 December 1941, during an air mission over Air Batangas, Philippine Islands. Captain Villamor led six ancient P-26's in interception of some fifty-four attacking bombers and the harassing tactics of the Filipino flyers minimized damage to their Batangas field. Captain Villamor's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the Philippine Army Air Corps, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 48 (1941)

VILLAMOR, JESUS A.

VILLAMOR, JESUS A.
(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 Jesus A. Villamor (0-888072), 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-26 Fighter Airplane in the 6th Pursuit Squadron, Philippine Army Air Corps, attached to the FAR EAST Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 12 December 1941. In defense of the Philippine Islands against Japanese aerial attack, on this date Captain Villamor engaged and shot down one enemy fighter. Captain Villamor's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the Philippine Army Air Corps, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 48 (1941)
Home Town: Manila, Philippine Islands
Personal Awards: 2@ Distinguished Service Crosses (WWII)

VILLINES, COLIN O.

VILLINES, COLIN O.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Colin O. Villines, 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 Villines participated in an extremely hazardous and difficult torpedo-bombing mission against the Japanese Navy. He displayed extraordinary heroism throughout the attack, and by his skilled airmanship and courageousness while subjected to intense fighter and anti-aircraft opposition, he was instrumental in the success of the first torpedo attack ever carried out by the Army Air Force. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant Villines 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: Hawaiian Department, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 117 (1942)

VITALI, CHESTER A.

VITALI, CHESTER A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Chester A. Vitali (0-797748), 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 360th Fighter Squadron, 356th Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 24 January 1944, in the European Theater of Operations. On this date First Lieutenant Vitali shot down three enemy aircraft in a single mission. First Lieutenant Vitali'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. 19 (1944)

VOGT, JOHN E.

VOGT, JOHN E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John E. Vogt (0-727593), 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 19th Fighter Squadron, 318th Fighter Group, SEVENTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 28 May 1945, over Kyushu, Japan. On this date Captain Vogt became an ACE in a day, shooting down five enemy aircraft in a single mission. Captain Vogt's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 7th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: Tenth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 206 (1945)

VOLL, JOHN J.

VOLL, JOHN J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John J. Voll (0-705511), 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-51 Fighter Airplane in the 308th Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter Group, FIFTEENTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 16 November 1944, in the European Theater of Operations. After destroying a JU 88 in the Udine area, Captain Voll was jumped by a dozen enemy fighters. Despite being heavily outnumbered, he remained in the fight, shooting down four more enemies to become an ace in a day. Captain Voll'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: European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 61 (1944)
Home Town: Goshen, Ohio

VONDRACHEK, CHARLES E.

VONDRACHEK, CHARLES E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Charles E. Vondrachek, 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 1 May 1943, in the European Theater of Operations. Staff Sergeant Vondrachek'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)
Home Town: Minnesota

VOSS, RAYMOND J.

VOSS, RAYMOND J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Raymond J. Voss, 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 16 July 1944, in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations. Staff Sergeant Voss' 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. 104 (1945)

WAGNER, BOYD D. (DNB)

WAGNER, BOYD D. (DNB)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Boyd D. Wagner (O-021623), 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 16 December 1941, during an air mission over Vigan, Philippine Islands. On that date, together with First Lieutenant Russel Church, First Lieutenant Wagner undertook the hazardous mission of dive bombing the enemy-held airfield at Vigan in the Philippine Islands. When they had reached the target area, Lieutenant Wagner signaled Lieutenant Strauss in a third fighter to remain on patrol, while he and Church proceeded to bomb the airfield. As they went into a dive, Lieutenant Church's plane was hit and set afire by anti-aircraft fire, but he continued the attack, released his bombs, and crashed to his death. Lieutenant Wagner, bitter at the lost of his comrade, dropped six fragmentation bombs and viciously strafed a fuel dump and approximately twenty planes parked on the runway, including destroying one airplane as it attempted to take off. First Lieutenant Wagner'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. 52 (1941)
Born: October 31, 1916 at Emeigh, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Johnstown, Pennsylvania

*WAGNER, DONALD F. (KIA)

*WAGNER, DONALD F. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Donald F. Wagner (0-735844), 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 on 5 April 1945, in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations. Second Lieutenant Wagner'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. 52 (1945)
Home Town: Camden County, New Jersey

WAINWRIGHT, JOHN H.

WAINWRIGHT, JOHN H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John H. Wainwright (0-814799), 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 P-47 Fighter Airplane in the 508th Fighter Squadron, 404th Fighter Group, NINTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 28 September 1944, in the European Theater of Operations. While participating in a fighter sweep over enemy territory, the formation in which Second Lieutenant Wainwright was flying was attacked by a superior force of enemy fighters. Without support and completely disregarding the heavy odds against him, he attacked three enemy fighters that were making a determined attack on his flight leader and destroyed one of them. Thrown into a spin by the explosion of the enemy fighter, he regained control of his plane and brought down three more enemy aircraft. By this time, completely separated from his formation, he encountered two more enemy planes, outmaneuvered them, and as he was getting into position to fire, the enemy aircraft collided and were destroyed. Second Lieutenant Wainwright'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 (January 8, 1945)
Born: at Marshall, Texas
Home Town: Marshall, Texas

WALKER, CLYDE B.

WALKER, CLYDE B.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Clyde B. Walker, 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 on a B-17 Heavy Bomber in Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, 5th Bombardment Group (H), THIRTEENTH Air Force, in action against enemy Japanese aerial forces during a Photo Reconnaissance Mission on 31 July 1942, over Wake Island. Lieutenant Walker was a member of the crew of a B-17 flown by Major Glober that flew 1,300 miles to Wake Island to perform a photo reconnaissance, despite the fact that two previous attempts had been tried and the crews never returned. Lieutenant Walker assisted the Pilot to successfully reconnoiter and photograph enemy positions, and to return safely to his base. Lieutenant Walker's skillful action in emerging from the flight without damage to his airplane or injury to its personnel was commendable. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant Walker on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 13th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: Hawaiian Department, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 140 (1942)

WALKER, LELAND A.

WALKER, LELAND A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Leland A. Walker, 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-25 Medium Bomber in the 3d Bombardment Group (L), FAR EAST Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 8 May 1942, against enemy targets in the Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant Walker 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: South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 24 (1942)

WALKER, WILLIAM R.

WALKER, WILLIAM R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William R. Walker, 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 P-40 Fighter Airplane in the 33d Pursuit Squadron (Provisional), 8th Pursuit Group, FAR EAST Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 19 February 1942, near Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia. Second Lieutenant Walker was Pilot of one of a flight of ten pursuit airplanes forced by unfavorable weather to turn back from a ferry flight from Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia to Koepang, Timor, Netherlands East Indies. When the flight arrived at Darwin, and before refueling could be effected, information of the approach of an enemy formation was received. When the approaching enemy, consisting of approximately sixty high-level bombers, thirty-six fighters and eighteen dive-bombers was intercepted, Lieutenant Walker, in spite of the tremendous odds, courageously attacked the enemy formation, inflicting heavy damage, and continued the attack until his airplane was shot down. Second Lieutenant Walker'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. 27 (1942)

WALLACE, ROBERT DAVID

WALLACE, ROBERT DAVID
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Robert David Wallace, 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 FAR EAST Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 8 December 1944, over Miri, Borneo. Captain Wallace volunteered to bomb the Lutong Oil Refinery in Borneo, a round trip of approximately two thousand miles requiring twelve hours' flying time. He took off from Morotai in a heavy bomber, and arriving at the refinery made his bombing run at an altitude of one hundred feet, through heavy and accurate antiaircraft fire. Hitting the cracking plant with every bomb in his load, he saw it explode in flames. He pulled out of his bombing run to return immediately at three hundred feet in two successive strafing attacks against storage tanks and personnel. Turning from his target he then strafed and damaged a twin-engine bomber on the nearby Miri Airfield. With two of his crew wounded and his plane heavily damaged by enemy fire he returned to the refinery, and made five more strafing attacks. Completing the destruction of his objective, he left it in flames and smoke rising fifteen thousand feet and visible for seventy five miles. Captain Wallace's outstanding heroism in eliminating one of the enemy's major sources of naval fuel oil made a significant contribution to the success of our operations in the Southwest Pacific Area. His personal courage and zealous devotion to duty 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. 46 (1945)
Born: August 17, 1917 at Haverhill, Massachusetts
Home Town: Haverhill, Massachusetts

*WALTER, DONALD A. (KIA)

*WALTER, DONALD A. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Donald A. Walter (0-437895), 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 414th Bombardment Squadron, 97th Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 21 August 1942, against enemy targets in the European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant Walter 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. 30 (1942)
Home Town: Lake County, Ohio

*WALTERS, ROY W. (MIA-KIA)

*WALTERS, ROY W. (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Roy W. Walters (12029059), Private, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Gunner on 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. Private Walters 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 own lives in the face of concentrated gunfire of the Japanese Naval forces and fighter planes. During this, the first torpedo attack ever carried out by the Army Air Forces, the airplane on which Private Walters was gunner, was lost. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Private Walters 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: Northampton County, Pennsylvania

WALTON, VICTOR EMANUEL

WALTON, VICTOR EMANUEL
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Victor Emanuel Walton (0-425052), 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-39 Fighter Airplane in the 54th Fighter Group, ELEVENTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 3 September 1942, in the Territory of Alaska. First Lieutenant Walton's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 11th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: Alaska Defense Command, General Orders No. 118 (1942)

WARD, EMERY M.

WARD, EMERY M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Emery M. Ward, 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 567th 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, Captain Ward 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 zealous devotion to duty displayed by Captain Ward 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)

WARD, RALPH E., JR.

WARD, RALPH E., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Ralph E. Ward, Jr. (0-728779), 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 90th Fighter Squadron, 80th Fighter Group, TENTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 27 March 1944, in the China-Burma-India Theater of Operations. On this date, in aerial combat, First Lieutenant Ward shot down two enemy aircraft. First Lieutenant Ward's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 10th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Forces-India/Burma Theater, General Orders No. 28 (1945)

WARMER, BENJAMIN F.

WARMER, BENJAMIN F.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Benjamin F. Warmer, 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 348th Squadron, 99th Bombardment Group (H), TWELFTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 5 July 1943, against enemy targets in the North African Theater of Operations. On that date, when his bomber was under attack by enemy fighters over Sicily, Staff Sergeant Warmer remained steadfastly at his guns and shot down SEVEN enemy aircraft. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Warmer on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 12th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army-North African Theater of Operations, General Orders No. 69 (1943)
Home Town: San Francisco, California

*WASKOWITZ, FRANK T. (MIA-KIA)

*WASKOWITZ, FRANK T. (MIA-KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Frank T. Waskowitz (0-401274), First 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 98th Bombardment Squadron, 11th Bombardment Group (H), THIRTEENTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 29 September 1942, against enemy targets in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Waskowitz 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 13th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 27 (1943)
Home Town: Cook County, Illinois
Personal Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), Silver Star (WWII), Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, Purple Heart

WATKINS, JAMES A.

WATKINS, JAMES A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James A. Watkins (0-427786), 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 9th Fighter Squadron, 49th Fighter Group, FIFTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 26 July 1943, in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations. On this date Captain Watkins destroyed four enemy aircraft in a single engagement. Captain Watkins' 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. 62 (1943)
Born: August 26, 1920 at Crystal Springs, Mississippi

*WATSON, WILLIAM S. (MIA-KIA)

*WATSON, WILLIAM S. (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to William S. Watson (0-424590), 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-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 Watson 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 own lives in the face of concentrated gunfire of the Japanese Naval forces and fighter planes. During this, the first torpedo attack ever carried out by the Army Air Forces, the airplane on which Second Lieutenant Watson was Pilot, was lost. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant Watson 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: Cook County, Illinois

*WATT, JAMES R. (MIA-KIA)

*WATT, JAMES R. (MIA-KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to James R. Watt (0-361717), 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-40 Fighter Airplane in Headquarters, 343d Fighter Group, ELEVENTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 23 May 1943, during an air mission near Attu Island, Territory of Alaska. Lieutenant Colonel Watt's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 11th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: Alaska Defense Command, General Orders No. 117 (1943)
Home Town: Mahoning County, Ohio
Personal Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, Purple Heart

WAYLAND, WILLIAM J.

WAYLAND, WILLIAM J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William J. Wayland (0-818470), 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 395th Fighter Squadron, 368th Fighter Group, NINTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 23 December 1944, in the European Theater of Operations. On that date, in aerial combat, First Lieutenant Wayland shot down two enemy aircraft. First Lieutenant Wayland'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. 29 (1945)

WEEKS, ELBERT W.

WEEKS, ELBERT W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Elbert W. Weeks, 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-17 Heavy Bomber in the 324th Bombardment Squadron, 91st Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 8 September 1944, against enemy targets in Ludwigshaven, Germany. On that date, during the bomb run First Lieutenant Weeks' Co-Pilot was mortally wounded and he was painfully wounded. Despite his pain he flew the ship without mentioning his wounds including a broken right hand with severed arteries and a wound in left thigh, until his co-pilot had been taken care of. He then allowed a tourniquet to be placed on his right arm and he landed the ship on a U.S. airstrip in France avoiding bomb craters and a bulldozer on the runway. Too weak from loss of blood, he had to be lifted from the plane, The aircraft was so damaged, it had to be salvaged. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Weeks 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. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 4 (1945)

WEEMS, THOMAS NATHANIEL, JR.

WEEMS, THOMAS NATHANIEL, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Thomas Nathaniel Weems, Jr., Second Lieutenant (Air Corps), U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Navigator on 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. Second Lieutenant Weems displayed extraordinary heroism during an extremely hazardous and difficult torpedo-bombing mission against the Japanese Navy. By his airmanship, skill in his specialty and courageousness, he successfully navigated his airplane in seeking out the enemy and in returning to his base through superior and intense fighter and anti-aircraft opposition, thereby materially aiding in the success of the first torpedo attack ever carried out by the Army Air Forces. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant Weems 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: Hawaiian Department, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 117 (1942)

WELCH, GEORGE SCHWARTZ

WELCH, GEORGE SCHWARTZ
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to George Schwartz Welch, 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 P-40 Fighter Airplane in the 47th Pursuit Squadron, 18th Pursuit Group, HAWAIIAN Air Force, in action over the Island of Oahu, Territory of Hawaii and waters adjacent thereto, on 7 December 1941. When surprised by a heavy air attack by Japanese forces on Wheeler Field and vicinity at approximately 8 a.m., Lieutenant Welch left Wheeler and proceeded by car, under fire, to Haleiwa Landing Field, approximately ten miles distance, where his squadron's planes were stationed. Immediately, on his own initiative, he took off for the purpose of attacking invading forces, without first obtaining information as to number or type of Japanese in the attacking force, and proceeded to his initial point over Barbers Point. At time of take off he was armed only with thirty-caliber machine guns. Upon arrival over Barbers Point, he observed a formation of approximately twelve planes over Ewa, about 100 feet below and ten miles away. Accompanied by only one other pursuit ship, he immediately attacked this enemy formation, shooting down an enemy dive bomber with one burst from three .30-caliber guns. At this point one .30 gun jammed. While engaged in this combat, his plane was hit by an incendiary bullet which passed through the baggage compartment just in rear of his seat. He climbed above the clouds, checked his plane, returned to the attack over Barbers Point and immediately attacked a Japanese plane running out to sea, which he shot down, the plane falling in the ocean. No more enemy planes in sight, he proceeded to Wheeler to refuel and replenish ammunition. Refueling and reloading completed but before repairing guns, a second wave of about fifteen enemy planes approached low over Wheeler. Three came at him and he immediately took off, headed straight into the attack and went to the assistance of a brother officer being attacked from the rear. This enemy plane burst into flames and crashed halfway between Wahiawa and Haleiwa. During this combat his plane was struck by three bullets from the rear gun of the ship he was attacking, one striking his motor, one the propeller and one the cowling. This attack wave having disappeared he returned to the vicinity of Ewa and found one enemy plane proceeding seaward, which he pursued and shot down about five miles off shore, immediately thereafter returning to his station at Haleiwa Landing Field. Lieutenant Welch's initiative, presence of mind, coolness under fire against overwhelming odds in his first battle, expert maneuvering of his plane, and determined action contributed to a large extent toward driving off this sudden unexpected enemy air attack. Second Lieutenant Welch's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the Hawaiian Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
War Department, General Orders No. 2 (1942)
Home Town: Wilmington, Delaware

WERNER, WILLIAM T. L.

WERNER, WILLIAM T. L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William T. L. Werner, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Tail Gunner of a B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 427th Bombardment Squadron, 303d Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 22 February 1944, against enemy targets in the European Theater of Operations. Before reaching the target Sergeant Werner was seriously wounded by a 20-mm. shell. He realized that with most attacks being made from the tail the ship would be doomed unless a steady stream of fire was maintained from the tail gun. In spite of his painful wounds he stayed at his post and destroyed at least one enemy fighter. Although wounded again by anti-aircraft fire and becoming weaker from loss of blood, he heroically stayed at his guns until all fighter attacks ceased before letting crew mates give him first aid. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Werner 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. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 25 (1944)
Home Town: Lebanon, Pennsylvania

WESCHE, FREDERICK F., III

WESCHE, FREDERICK F., III
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Frederick F. Wesche, III, Captain (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 19th Bombardment Group (H), FAR EAST Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on January 5, 1943, against enemy targets in the Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Captain Wesche 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.
Home Town: Roselle, New Jersey

WEST, RICHARD L.

WEST, RICHARD L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Richard L. West (0-667125), 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-38 Fighter Airplane in the 35th Fighter Squadron, 8th Fighter Group, FIFTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 15 November 1943, in the Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. On that date, in aerial combat, First Lieutenant West shot down FOUR enemy aircraft in a single engagement. First Lieutenant West'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. 23 (1944)

WESTBROOK, ROBERT B. (MIA-KIA)

WESTBROOK, ROBERT B. (MIA-KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Robert B. Westbrook (0-424187), 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 44th Fighter Squadron, 18th Fighter Group, THIRTEENTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 23, 24, and 25 December 1943, in the Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. On 23 December Major Westbrook shot down one enemy aircraft. On 24 December Major Westbrook shot down three enemy airplanes in a single engagement, and on 25 December he shot down two more. Major Westbrook's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 13th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 347 (1944)
Home Town: Los Angeles, California
Personal Awards: Distinguished Service Cross, 2@ Silver Stars, 2@ Distinguished Flying Crosses, Air Medal, Purple Heart

WESTBY, MORTON K. (KIA)

WESTBY, MORTON K. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Morton K. Westby (0-751063), First 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 European Theater of Operations during World War II. First Lieutenant Westby'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. 61 (1944)
Home Town: Brown County, South Dakota

WESTERBEKE, DONALD G.

WESTERBEKE, DONALD G.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Donald G. Westerbeke, 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 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 Westerbeke 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 zealous devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Westerbeke 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)

WETMORE, RAY S.

WETMORE, RAY S.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Ray S. Wetmore (0-675960), 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-51 Fighter Airplane in the 370th Fighter Squadron, 359th Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 2 November 1944, during a bomber escort mission over Germany. Upon leaving the target, Captain Wetmore spotted thirty Me-109's which he immediately led his section of six airplanes to engage. He overtook the enemy and by the vigor and daring of his attack broke up the Me-109 formation. Scoring hits on one enemy airplane, he pursued it alone through the undercast to complete its destruction. Alone under the overcast, he then engaged from fifteen to twenty more Me-109's, refusing to break off the action in the face of repeated passes by the enemy pilots although only two of his guns were firing. Despite the overwhelming numerical superiority of the enemy, his cool courage and superb skill as a combat pilot resulted in the destruction of another enemy fighter, and the remaining Me-109's then dispersed. Captain Wetmore's resolute determination to attack and destroy the enemy in the face of every hazard and his eagerness to force combat against heavy odds have been an inspiration to his fellow flyers and reflect highest credit upon himself, the 8th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 87 (1944)

WETMORE, RAY S.

WETMORE, RAY S.
(Second Award)
Citation:
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 Ray S. Wetmore, 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-51 Fighter Airplane in the 370th Fighter Squadron, 359th Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 27 November 1944, during an air mission over Germany. On this date, Captain Wetmore was leader of a flight of four P-51 fighter aircraft on a fighter sweep mission over north central Germany. During the mission he sighted three formations of enemy aircraft, totaling more than 200 FW 190's and Me-109's. With total disregard for his own personal safety, Major Wetmore tracked the hostile fighters, radioing their positions, altitude and course to his nearby fighter group. Supporting fighters failed to arrive, and Major Wetmore, ignoring the fact of the overwhelming odds of 200 to 2, chose to attack three of the enemy aircraft in the air. The action of Major Wetmore on this occasion was a clear demonstration of the willful selection of the more hazardous of two acceptable and honorable courses of action, since his withdrawal from the combat under such overwhelmingly unfavorable circumstances would certainly have been acceptable. Captain Wetmore'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. Army Air Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 168 (1945)
Personal Awards: 2@ Distinguished Service Crosses (WWII)

WHALEN, NORMAN M.

WHALEN, NORMAN M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Norman M. Whalen, Second Lieutenant (Air Corps), U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Navigator of a B-24 Heavy Bomber in the 344th 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, Second Lieutenant Whalen remained steady as he directed his airplane through heavy enemy fire against impossible odds, performing his duties valiantly. When his bomber was badly damaged he successfully plotted a course to Cypress for emergency landing. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant Whalen 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. 86 (1943)

WHELESS, HEWITT T.

WHELESS, HEWITT T.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Hewitt T. Wheless, 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-17 Heavy Bomber in the 19th Bombardment Group (H), FAR EAST Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 14 December 1941, against enemy targets in the Philippine islands. On this date during a bombing mission against two enemy transports, Lieutenant Wheless' heavy bomber was attacked by a formation of 18 Japanese fighter planes. As he maneuvered his ship his gun crew shot down seven enemy planes and dropped depth charges which capsized the transports. He then successfully landed his bomber although its three tires were flat and the plane was badly damaged. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Wheless 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.
Office of the Department Commander, South West Pacific Command, General Orders No. 2 (1942)
Born: 1913 at Menard, Texas
Home Town: Fresno, California

WHERRY, WILLIAM B. (MIA-KIA)

WHERRY, WILLIAM B. (MIA-KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William B. Wherry (6246992), Technical 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-25 Medium Bomber in the 13th Bombardment Squadron, 3d Bombardment Group (L), FAR EAST Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 25 May 1942, against enemy targets in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Technical Sergeant Wherry 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. 34 (1943)
Home Town: Anderson County, Texas

WHISNER, WILLIAM T., JR.

WHISNER, WILLIAM T., JR.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William T. Whisner, Jr. (0-798190/16324A), 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-51 Fighter Airplane in the 487th Fighter Squadron, 352d Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 21 November 1944, during an air mission in the European Theater of Operations. On that date, Captain Whisner led a flight of P-51s on an escort mission to Merseburg, Germany. As the bombers left their target, a large formation of enemy fighters struck. In a linked series of attacks, Whisner shot down four FW- 190s in the cover flight and probably got another. With no more than two -190s left in the cover flight he had attacked, Whisner turned his attention to the main enemy formation, exploding an ME-190 that had not dropped its belly tank. Evading three -190s on his tail, he shot down another that was closing on one of his pilots. Whisner was credited with five FW-190s and two probables that day. His score later was revised by the Air Force Historical Research Center to six destroyed, making that day one of the best for any USAAF pilot in the skies over Europe. Captain Whisner'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. 9 (1945)

WHISNER, WILLIAM T., JR.

WHISNER, WILLIAM T., JR.
(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 William T. Whisner, Jr. (0-798190/16324A), 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-51 Fighter Airplane in the 487th Fighter Squadron, 352d Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 1 January 1945, during the Luftwaffe's desperate mass strike on airfields in Belgium and Northern France. On that date, the 352d Group was operating temporarily from a field in Belgium under IX Tactical Air Command. In the ensuing battle, fought at low altitude and before the 487th had time to form up, Captain Whisner shot down an ME-90, then was hit by 20-mm. fire. With his windshield and canopy covered by oil and one aileron damaged, Captain Whisner stayed in the fight, shooting down two more ME-190s and an ME-109. Captain Whisner'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. 34 (1945)
Personal Awards: 2@ Distinguished Service Crosses (WWII), Distinguished Service Cross (Korea)

WHITE, RAYMOND S. (MIA-KIA)

WHITE, RAYMOND S. (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Raymond S. White (6854202), Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Radio Operator and Gunner on 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. Technical Sergeant White displayed extraordinary heroism during an extremely hazardous and difficult torpedo-bombing mission against the Japanese Navy. By skilled airmanship and courageousness he was instrumental in the success of the first torpedo attack ever carried out by the Army Air forces, in the face of intense enemy fighter and anti-aircraft opposition. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Technical Sergeant White 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: Blair County, Pennsylvania

WHITEHEAD, ENNIS CLEMENT

WHITEHEAD, ENNIS CLEMENT
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Ennis Clement Whitehead, Brigadier General (Air Corps), U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of V Bomber Command, FIFTH Air Force, while participating in bombing missions during the period from 23 July 1942 through 8 January 1943, against enemy targets in the Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. The gallant leadership, personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Brigadier General Whitehead 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: South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 5 (January 11, 1943)
Born: September 3, 1895 at Westphalia, Kansas

WHITSON, WILLIAM D.

WHITSON, WILLIAM D.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William D. Whitson, 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-17 Heavy Bomber in the 365th Bombardment Squadron, 305th Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 15 May 1943, against enemy targets in the European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Captain Whitson 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: European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 41 (1943)

*WHITTINGTON, LEONARD H. (MIA-KIA)

*WHITTINGTON, LEONARD H. (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Leonard H. Whittington (0-427074), 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 on 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 Whittington 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 tot heir own lives in the face of concentrated gunfire of the Japanese Naval forces and fighter planes. During this, the first torpedo attack ever carried out by the Army Air Forces, the airplane on which Lieutenant Whittington was co-pilot, was lost. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant Whittington 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: Texas

WIECKS, MAX R.

WIECKS, MAX R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Max R. Wiecks (0-430006), 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 P-40 Fighter Airplane in the 33d Pursuit Squadron (Provisional), 8th Pursuit Group, FAR EAST Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 19 February 1942, during an air mission near Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia. Second Lieutenant Wiecks was Pilot of one of a flight of ten pursuit airplanes forced by unfavorable weather to turn back from a ferry flight from Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia to Koepang, Timor, Netherlands East Indies. When the flight arrived at Darwin, and before refueling could be effected, information of the approach of an enemy formation was received. When the approaching enemy, consisting of approximately sixty high-level bombers, thirty-six fighters and eighteen dive-bombers was intercepted, Lieutenant Wiecks, in spite of the tremendous odds, courageously attacked the enemy formation, inflicting heavy damage, and continued the attack until his airplane was shot down. Second Lieutenant Wiecks' 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: South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 27 (1942)

WIEGAND, ARTHUR H.

WIEGAND, ARTHUR H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Arthur H. Wiegand, 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 on 28 July 1943, in the European Theater of Operations. Second Lieutenant Wiegand'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. 77 (1943)

*WILDE, ROBERT M. (KIA)

*WILDE, ROBERT M. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Robert M. Wilde (0-427075), 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 P-39 Fighter Airplane in the 35th Pursuit Squadron, 8th Pursuit Group, FAR EAST Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 12 May 1942, in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations. On that date, in aerial combat, Second Lieutenant Wilde shot down TWO enemy aircraft. Second Lieutenant Wilde'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: South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 33 (September 12, 1942)
Home Town: Ida County, Iowa

*WILKINSON, JAMES W. (MIA-KIA)

*WILKINSON, JAMES W. (MIA-KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to James W. Wilkinson (0-885574), 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 82d Fighter Squadron, 78th Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 19 May 1944, during an air mission in the European Theater of Operations. On that date Captain Wilkinson was escorting B-24 bomber boxes of the Third Air Task Force on course to attack industrial targets in Brunswick, Germany. The Group was 11 o'clock level with the lead box of 300 bombers, when a large gaggle of sixty plus ME-109s and FW-190s in two waves came at the nose of the great formation spread out abreast to increase their firepower effectiveness. Despite damage to his own aircraft, Captain Wilkinson remained in the fight, shooting down one enemy fighter. Captain Wilkinson'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)
Born: November 9, 1916 at Newark, Ohio
Home Town: Cincinnati, Pennsylvania
Personal Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), Silver Star (WWII), 5@ Distinguished Flying Crosses, Air Medal, Purple Heart

*WILLIAMS, GREELEY B. (KIA)

*WILLIAMS, GREELEY B. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Greeley B. Williams (17003441), Private First Class, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy in aerial combat while serving 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 airfield in the Philippine Islands. From a gunner's post in one of the B-17s, Private First Class Williams kept up a steady fire against the Japanese planes until he was killed. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Private First Class Williams 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: U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 48 (1941)
Home Town: Johnson County, Iowa

WILLIAMSON, FELIX D.

WILLIAMSON, FELIX D.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Felix D. Williamson (0-667894), 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 62d Fighter Squadron, 56th Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 14 January 1945, in the European Theater of Operations. On this date Captain Williamson became an ACE in a day, shooting down five enemy aircraft in a single mission. Captain Williamson'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. 37 (1945)

*WILSON, AVIS K. (MIA-KIA)

*WILSON, AVIS K. (MIA-KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Avis K. Wilson (13035110), 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 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. 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 Wilson 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, and, despite the fact that gasoline was streaming from one of its damaged fuel tanks, continued on, in the face of almost insurmountable odds. Over the blazing target, Staff Sergeant Wilson, with heroic calm and unflinching loyalty, remained steadfast by his guns. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Wilson 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. 89 (1943)
Home Town: Montgomery County, Virginia

WILSON, FREDERICK M.

WILSON, FREDERICK M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Frederick M. Wilson, 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 18 December 1942, in the North African Theater of Operations. Staff Sergeant Wilson'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-North African Theater of Operations, General Orders No. 107 (1943)

WILSON, JAMES W.

WILSON, JAMES W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James W. Wilson, 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 B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 423th Bombardment Squadron, 306th Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 26 June 1943, against enemy targets in the European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Colonel Wilson 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: European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 61 (1943)
Born: at Rawlins, Wyoming
Home Town: Bowling Green, Ohio

*WILSON, RUSSELL A. (MIA-KIA)

*WILSON, RUSSELL A. (MIA-KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Russell A. Wilson (0-17164), Colonel (Air Corps), U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commander, 3d Air Division, EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 6 March 1944, against enemy targets in the European Theater of Operations. On this date Colonel Wilson flew in an H2X- equipped B-17 with the leading 385th Bombardment Group in the second daylight bombing raid over Berlin Germany. The leading wing had not encountered any serious fighter opposition, but over the precincts of Berlin heavy flak was put up directly in the path of the command aircraft. After taking more than one direct hit, the aircraft continued on its bomb run although one engine was on fire. Then it began to lose altitude and the pilot gave the order to abandon. Seconds later the bomber exploded, killing eight of the twelve men aboard. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Wilson 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: U.S. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 29 (1944)
Home Town: Rockland County, New York

WINTERS, ELMER R.

WINTERS, ELMER R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Elmer R. Winters, Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Gunner of an American Bomber while participating in a bombing mission on 18 July 1944, against enemy targets in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations. Despite severe wounds, Technical Sergeant Winters manned his gun during an attack from over 200 enemy fighters. He destroyed two enemy aircraft and damaged another. He took the only bomb strike pictures of the mission, thereby insuring valuable photographic intelligence data. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Technical Sergeant Winters on this occasion 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. Army Air Forces-Mediterranean Theater of Operations, General Orders No. 45 (1944)

WITT, GERALD SANFORD

WITT, GERALD SANFORD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Gerald Sanford Witt, 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 719th Bombardment Squadron, 449th Bombardment Group (H), FIFTEENTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission against enemy targets during World War II. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Witt 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.
Home Town: Connelsville, Pennsylvania

WITT, LYNN E., JR.

WITT, LYNN E., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Lynn E. Witt, Jr. (0-795008), 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 35th Fighter Squadron, 8th Fighter Group, FIFTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 26 December 1944, in the Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. On this date, in aerial combat, Captain Witt shot down an enemy airplane. Captain Witt'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. 138 (1945)
Home Town: Bowden, Georgia

*WOLF, JOHN KEYES (KIA)

*WOLF, JOHN KEYES (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to John Keyes Wolf (0-827116), 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 in the 454th Bombardment Group (H), FIFTEENTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 18 December 1944, during a mission to attack the oil refineries at Osweicim, Poland. After going over the target with only three engines functioning, Lieutenant Wolf's bomber commenced losing a second on the route home, finally forcing him to feather it. He threaded his desperate way through the icy skies attempting to maintain as high altitude as possible. When it became apparent that altitude was fast diminishing, he ordered the crew to evacuate every item of equipment unattached to the aircraft to lighten its weight. The gunners in the waist actually dismounted their 50-caliber machine guns and threw them out along with boxes of heavy ammunition and all other equipment except ditching equipment for the hazardous trip across the Adriatic. After losing a third engine, he attempted to sound the bail- out warning bell, but it failed, having been shot out by enemy fire. He then, by radio, directed the crew to bail, demanding that the nose and the deck be cleared, and he gained affirmative responses from both those areas as six crewmen, one after the other, bailed out into the snowy skies over mountainous Yugoslavia. Lieutenant Wolff never received a response by intercom from the waist, and realizing that three crewmen had been trapped with no knowledge of the bail-out order, he attempted in a desperate and heroic effort to land the crippled aircraft on the side of a mountain. With limited power, the nose of the aircraft dipped as it neared the ground, struck the top of a knoll, thrust him through the windshield to an instant death, broke apart, and burst into flames. The three crewmen in the waist took the impact in crash positions, and two of them died immediately. A third, critically injured, nonetheless was able to crawl through a gaping hole in the side of the aircraft made by a bursting oxygen tank and was rescued by the native Yugoslavs and pulled to safety. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant Wolf 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 15th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army Air Forces-Mediterranean Theater of Operations, General Orders No. 41 (1945)
Home Town: Raleigh, North Carolina

WOLIVER, ROBERT M.

WOLIVER, ROBERT M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Robert M. Woliver, 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-29 Very Heavy Bomber in the 330th Bombardment Group (VH), TWENTIETH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 1 June 1945, against enemy targets in Japan. On that date, Second Lieutenant Woliver's B-29 Aircraft was flying from a base in the Marianas on a daylight strike against the industrial city of Osaka, Japan. The formation was attacked viciously by fighters and anti-aircraft fire and just before bombs away the aircraft was hit by what probably was a barrage of heavy flak. The left side of the nose was blown away, killing the pilot instantly, shattering the left arm of copilot Second Lieutenant Woliver and blinding his left eye. The aircraft commander's instrument panel was destroyed, and the copilot's panel was left with only a magnetic compass and the needle and ball. The left control column was snapped off a foot above the floor, the flight engineer's panel and the radio knocked out, and the hydraulic system ruptured. The plane immediately went into a spiraling dive from 20,000 feet before the dazed copilot recovered his faculties enough to pull out with his good right arm at an estimated 10,000 feet. There was undetermined damage to the flight controls, leaving the B-29 in a nose-down attitude. Keeping the nose up required heavy back pressure on the control column. The B-29 now was over water, headed toward China. Bomb bay doors could not be opened to jettison the bomb load. Nearing the friendly field at Iwo Jima, Lieutenant Woliver knew he could not land the airplane in his weakened condition, with partial sight, no instruments, and no brakes. He ordered the crew to bail out over the island. Woliver himself was too weak to get out of his seat and leave through the nose wheel well. Lieutenant Logerot, bombardier, though suffering from flash burns, stayed with the damaged plane, got Woliver out the wheel well, and was the last to leave the plane. By his great courage and determination, despite his pain and wounds, Lieutenant Woliver stayed at his post despite grave wounds and saved the lives of his crew. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant Woliver on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 20th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Office of Department Commander, Twentieth U.S. Army Air Force, General Orders No. 17 (1945)

*WOOD, HOWARD C. (MIA-KIA)

*WOOD, HOWARD C. (MIA-KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Howard C. Wood (0-664709), 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-25 Medium Bomber in the 17th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 71st Reconnaissance Group, FIFTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 8 June 1944, against enemy warships in Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. Second Lieutenant Wood's airplane was destroyed by enemy fire while he was bravely attacking a large destroyer. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant Wood 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: U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 12 (1945)
Home Town: Humboldt, California

WOOD, JACK WESTON

WOOD, JACK WESTON
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Jack Weston Wood, Colonel (Air Corps), U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Group Commander of a Group of B-24 Heavy Bombers of the 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, Colonel Wood, while flying as group commander in a bomber flown by Captain Kenneth Caldwell, led his group through heavy enemy fire against impossible odds. The heroic leadership, personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Wood 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.
War Department, General Orders No. 79 (1943)
Born: at Fairbault, Minnesota

*WOOD, RICHARD MILO (MIA-KIA)

*WOOD, RICHARD MILO (MIA-KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Richard Milo Wood (0-433151), 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 93d Bombardment Squadron, 19th Bombardment Group (H), FIFTH Air Force, while participating in bombing missions on 6 and 7 August 1942, against enemy targets near Rabaul. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant Wood 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: South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 34 (September 15, 1942)
Home Town: Drumwright, Oklahoma

WOODS, FRANCIS (KIA)

WOODS, FRANCIS (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Francis Woods (0-767935), First 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 347th Bombardment Squadron, 99th Bombardment Group (H), TWELFTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 5 October 1944, against enemy targets in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Woods 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 12th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army-Mediterranean Theater of Operations, General Orders No. 56 (1944)
Home Town: Alameda, California
Personal Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), 2@ Air Medals, Purple Heart

WOODS, SIDNEY S. (POW)

WOODS, SIDNEY S. (POW)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sidney S. Woods (0-377222), 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 4th Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 22 March 1945, in the European Theater of Operations. On this date Lieutenant Colonel Woods became an ace in a day by shooting down five Focke-Wulf 190s. Lieutenant Colonel Woods' 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. 34 (1945)
Home Town: Yuma, Arizona

WOODY, ROBERT E.

WOODY, ROBERT E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Robert E. Woody (0-411901), 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-51 Fighter Airplane in the 354th Fighter Squadron, 355th Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 24 April 1944. On this date Captain Woody shot down four enemy aircraft and assisted in destruction of a fifth. Captain Woody'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. 28 (1944)

WRIGHT, ARTHUR H., JR.

WRIGHT, ARTHUR H., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Arthur H. Wright, Jr., 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 during World War II. Second Lieutenant Wright'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.

WRIGHT, CLIFTON J.

WRIGHT, CLIFTON J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Clifton J. Wright, 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-25 Medium Bomber in the 3d Bombardment Group (L), FIFTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on October 24, 1943, in action against enemy forces in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Wright 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. 68 (1944)

WRIGHT, ELLIS W., JR.

WRIGHT, ELLIS W., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Ellis W. Wright, Jr. (0-393170), 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 Headquarters, 49th Fighter Group, FIFTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 11 April 1943, in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations. On this date while engaging enemy aircraft, Captain Wright shot down three Japanese airplanes. Captain Wright'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. 37 (1943)

WRIGHT, JOHN B.

WRIGHT, JOHN B.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John B. Wright, Captain (Air Corps), U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy in action against enemy forces on 13 October 1944, in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations. Captain Wright'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. 2 (1945)

WYLIE, JOHN W.

WYLIE, JOHN W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John W. Wylie, 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 TWELFTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 25 June 1943, against enemy targets in the North African Theater of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Second Lieutenant Wylie on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 12th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.
Headquarters: U.S. Army-North African Theater of Operations, General Orders No. 92 (1943)
Home Town: Apollo, Pennsylvania

YEARWOOD, ROY WAGGONER

YEARWOOD, ROY WAGGONER
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Roy Waggoner Yearwood, 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 an A-20 Fighter-Bomber in the 641st Bombardment Squadron, 409th Bombardment Group (L), NINTH Air Force, while participating in an air mission on 9 May 1944, against ground targets in the European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Colonel Yearwood on this occasion 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.
Headquarters: U.S. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 36 (1944)

YEVICH, EDWARD S.

YEVICH, EDWARD S.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Edward S. Yevich, Staff 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 418th Bombardment Squadron, 100th Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 8 October 1943, against enemy targets in the European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Yevich 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: European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 96 (1943)

ZDANZUKAS, VINCENT R.

ZDANZUKAS, VINCENT R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Vincent R. Zdanzukas, First 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 during World War II. First Lieutenant Zdanzukas' 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.

ZEMKE, HUBERT (POW)

ZEMKE, HUBERT (POW)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Hubert Zemke (0-22353), 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 in the 56th Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 11 February 1944, in the European Theater of Operations. Colonel Zemke'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. 18 (1944)
Born: March 14, 1914 at Missoula, Montana
Home Town: Missoula, Montana

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