Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

1st Lieutenant

Unit:

67th Bombardment Squadron, 44th Bombardment Group, U.S. Army Air Forces

Awarded on:

September 16th, 1943

Awarded for:

Operation Tidal Wave

Citation:
"For distinguishing himself in air operations against the Ploesti Oil Refineries of Roumania on August 1, 1943. This officer took part in the longest attack ever undertaken by so large a number of B-24 type aircraft. During the ardous operations, made extremely hazardous because the attack was made from a very low level and because the target was one of the strongest defended areas in Europe, bristling with 1100 heavy anti-aircraft guns and protected by many fighter aircraft, the participants displayed such heroic perseverance, technical skill, and valiant effort, that the mission met with great success. This officer's achievement brought high honour to the Army Air Forces."

General Orders No. 90, Headquarters Ninth US Air Force.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Second DFC awarded in the form of a bronze oak leaf cluster to be worn on the ribbon of the first DFC.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

Squadron Commander

Awarded on:

February 2nd, 1945

Citation:
"For extraordinary meritorious achievement in aerial flight. In February 1945, Major Dabney, Squadron Commander of a formation of heavy bombers which participated in the longest formation attack mission, over 2400 miles, by the USAAF in this theatre. On reaching the Kra Isthmus, large cloud formations prevented the formation from crossing the assigned altitude without dispersing. Major Dabney, as commander, elected to bring his squadron across intact, although it meant approaching the target area at an altitude vulnerable to expected and probably anti aircraft fire. On reaching the target, the clouds still prevented a squadron attack at the briefed altitude. Knowing this change, in a briefed altitude would continue to expose his formation to probably enemy fire; Major Dabney elected to approach and attack the target because of its strategic importance to the enemy as a rail repair center, marshalling yards and military stores depot. His formation successfully bombed its assigned target in the Chumporn Paknam area. Major Dabney's determination and leadership enabled his formation to inflict a heavy blow to the enemy's supply and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the Army Air Force."

Third DFC awarded in the form of a second bronze oak leaf cluster to be worn on the ribbon of the first DFC.
General Order No. 120, Headquarters 10th Air Force.
At the time of the action he still held the rank of Captain.