Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

1st Lieutenant

Unit:

416th Bombardment Squadron, 99th Bombardment Group, U.S. Army Air Forces

Recommendation:
"For extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the Mediterranean Theatre of Operations as pilot of B-17 type aircraft. During the period 20 October 1944 to 21 April 1945, Lt. Gregory has flown thirty (30) combat missions with a total of two hundred and thirty (230) operational hours over enemy occupied territory. As a first pilot, flight commander and squadron leader, Lt. Gregory has demonstrated exceptional professional skill and superior leadership.
On 20 April 1945, Lt. Gregory flew on a mission to bomb a strategic railroad marshalling yards in the Brenner Pass. On the bomb run, a barrage of intense, accurate anti-aircraft fire was encountered, and Lt. Gregory's aircraft was hit and severely damaged by the flak. The electrical system was knocked out, the hydraulic system was knocked out, and #3 engine was damaged.
With great skill and cool presence of mind, Lt. Gregory maintained his place as flight leader and skillfully continued on the bomb run, enabling the bombardiers to concentrate their bombs on this vital installation. A a resuls of the flak damage, the bomb bay doors could not be closed and a leak had developed in the oxygen system, causing Lt. Gregory to leave the formation after the bombs had been dropped. The oxygen loss made it necessary to drop to a low altitude, and bomb bay doors being open made it difficult to maintain an airspeed of more then one hundred and twenty five (125) miles per hour. Although deep in enemy territory, Lt. Gregory decided to remain with the crippled aircraft and make the long journey home. Using all of his professional skill and with a great devotion to duty, he was able to return the plane and crew to the home field. As a result of the damage to the hydraulic system, the brakes were inoperative, and upon landing, Lt. Gregory had to ground loop the aircraft to keep from over-running the runway.
His skill and coolness thorughout the entire flight was responsible for the safe return of plane and crew.
On this and many other combat missions, Lt. Gregory's conspicious aerial skill and inspired leadership have been vital factors in the success of the squadron bombing missions.
Such professional skill and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon Lt. Gregory and the Armed Forces of the United States of America."

Mediterranean Theatre of Operations as pilot of B-17 during period of 20 October 1944 to 21 April 1945, 30 combat missions.