Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

2nd Lieutenant

"For extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight on 10 March 1945. These individuals were combat crewmembers on a B-29 Aircraft engaging in a major incendiary attack on the Tokyo port and urban areas. Taking off twenty-six minutes late after overcoming last minute mechanical difficulties, they arrived over the target alone when all defense activities were alerted and the city already ablaze. On the bomb run, the aircraft was under intense anti-aircraft fire and searchlights. Just prior to bombs away while their plane was in a nose down attitude and a seventy-degree bank, a terrific thermal caused by an explosion in the target area tossed the aircraft 5000 feet higher almost instantaneously. They recovered control of the plan and released their bombs on the briefed target area. Under constant danger of enemy fighter attacks, engine failure, and difficult navigation problems, these individuals displayed great courage and determination in overcoming all obstacles to attack the enemy. Their superior professional ability and devotion to duty reflect great credit on themselves and the Army Air Forces."