Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

Marine Fighting Squadron 121 (VMF-121), Marine Aircraft Group 14 (MAG-14), U.S. Marine Corps Aviation, U.S. Marine Corps

"For outstanding heroism and courage above and beyond the call of duty as executive officer of Marine Fighting Squadron 121, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, at Guadalcanal. Engaging in almost daily combat with the enemy from 9 October to 19 November 1942, Capt. Foss personally shot down 23 Japanese planes and damaged others so severely that their destruction was extremely probable. In addition, during this period, he successfully led a large number of escort missions, skillfully covering reconnaissance, bombing, and photographic planes as well as surface craft. On 15 January 1943, he added 3 more enemy planes to his already brilliant successes for a record of aerial combat achievement unsurpassed in this war. Boldly searching out an approaching enemy force on 25 January, Capt. Foss led his 8 F-4F Marine planes and 4 Army P-38's into action and, undaunted by tremendously superior numbers, intercepted and struck with such force that 4 Japanese fighters were shot down and the bombers were turned back without releasing a single bomb. His remarkable flying skill, inspiring leadership, and indomitable fighting spirit were distinctive factors in the defense of strategic American positions on Guadalcanal."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

Marine Fighting Squadron 121 (VMF-121), Marine Aircraft Group 14 (MAG-14), U.S. Marine Corps Aviation, U.S. Marine Corps

"For extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights as Pilot in the Solomon Islands Area. During the period 13 October to 20 October 1942, inclusive, Captain Foss shot down six enemy Aero fighters and one enemy bomber in aerial combat. His constant aggressiveness, skill and leadership during these engagements were worthy of the highest traditions of the naval service."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Gold Star in lieu

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Second Gold Star in lieu

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)