William D. Whitson

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.