Benjamin W. Fridge

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Benjamin W. Fridge, 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 345th Bombardment Group (M), FIFTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 2 November 1942, against enemy surface vessels at Rabaul. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Major Fridge 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.