Donald R. Strother

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Donald R. Strother (0-21643), 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 7th Bombardment Group (H), TENTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 8 February 1942, against enemy targets in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations. On that date, Captain Strother was Pilot of one of nine heavy bombers sent out to bomb Kendari, Celebes, Netherlands East Indies. When Captain Dufrane, the flight leader, was shot down in flames, Captain Strother immediately moved into the lead. The enemy’s fire in a second attack knocked out one engine, damaged another, and blew out the hydraulic system of his plane. Despite this damage, Captain Strother managed to return his bomber safely to base. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Strother on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 10th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.