Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

"For extraordinary achievement while serving as Navigator of a B-17 airplane on bombing missions over Germany, 29 July 1944, 24 August 1944, 5 November 1944, and 15 December 1944. Throughout these operations Lieutenant McCaslin exhibited exceptional navigational proficiency and a meticulous attention to detail. On 29 July 1944 Lieutenant McCaslin adroitly navigated the aircraft over the arduous route to an important objective. Upon arrival in the target area, he ascertained that the target was covered by dense smoke. Although the airplane in which he was serving was struck by flak on the bomb run, bombs were released on the target. Lieutenant McCaslin then ably navigated the aircraft back to base. On 24 August 1944 he capably guided the airplane to the objective in the face of two series of fighter attacks, which lasted approximately fifteen minutes. Antiaircraft fire was encountered over the target, inflicting damage upon the aircraft. Bombs were released with accuracy and Lieutenant McCaslin skillfully directed the airplane back to base. On 5 November 1944 he served with distinction, contributing to the high degree of success, which was achieved. On 15 December 1944 adverse weather conditions were encountered throughout the flight to the objective. After leaving the target the airplane in which Lieutenant McCaslin was serving assumed the lead position of the Squadron and he expertly navigated the formation back to England without further incident. The courage, coolness and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant McCaslin on these occasions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States."