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Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 1040 - 31 January 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Russell D. Baade (MCSN: 0-35228), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy, as a member of Marine Fighter Squadron Three Hundred Twelve (VMF-312), on 6 September 1951, in the vicinity of Kumwa-ri, Korea. While on a Close Air Support mission, Captain Baade attacked and scored direct hits with his napalm bombs on two heavily armored tanks. In spite of the adverse weather conditions over hazardous terrain and in the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, he made repeated low level bombing and strafing attacks until both tanks were completely destroyed. The primary mission accomplished, Captain Baade and his flight were then diverted by the air controller to an exposed enemy troop concentration near the North Korean city of Kuhwa-ri. By his skillful airmanship in his low level strafing runs he was able to inflict heavy casualties upon the enemy resulting in the neutralization of this position, thereby materially contributing to the success of the attack then being conducted by friendly ground troops. Throughout these engagements Captain Baade displayed outstanding qualities of skill, aggressiveness and courage and his actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 7160 - 7 May 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain George A. Bacas (MCSN: 0-49327), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea. On 18 January 1953, Captain Bacas led a flight of Marine Attack Aircraft against a heavily defended concentration of enemy mortars then firing on elements of the Sixth Republic of Korea Division. He promptly located the cleverly concealed positions in a valley and initiated an aggressive bombing attack through a heavy defensive crossfire from nearby ridges. Scoring direct hits with his bombs, he then led and directed his flight in the complete destruction of the mortar positions. Observing several adjacent hostile installations Captain Bacas immediately pressed a low level diving assault and set fire to several personnel shelters with a napalm bomb. He resolutely continued to lead his flight in repeated attacks until one hundred per cent coverage of the target area was accomplished. Captain Bacas' courageous actions and his outstanding leadership in organizing and directing his flight were largely responsible for the success of a mission that substantially reduced enemy pressure on front line positions of friendly troops. His exemplary conduct, professional skill, and steadfast devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 391 - 13 January 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain John P. Baden (MCSN: 0-36002), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving as a Pilot in a Marine Fighting Squadron in Korea. On 29 August 1951, Captain Baden took off with his flight on a special strike to disrupt the enemy rail supply route at Kumch'on, Korea. Despite adverse weather conditions and hazardous terrain, Captain Baden evidenced expert leadership ability by accurately and safely directing his flight deep into enemy territory to this enemy stronghold. Notwithstanding the heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire over the target, Captain Baden, without regard for his own personal safety, positioned his planes to as to make the most effective strike against the objective and initiated his attack. Skillfully employing his planes to the best advantage, he repeatedly bombed and strafed the target. As a direct result of his skillful airmanship and courageous attacks one enemy rail tunnel was completely closed, one rail bridge was severely damaged and three separate rail cuts were effected. These attacks and the ensuing damage greatly impeded the flow of vitally needed supplies to the enemy front line positions. Captain Baden's skillful flying and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Charles "J" Badewitz (NSN: 0-250773), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as flight leader and pilot of an attack bomber in Attack Squadron Nine Hundred Twenty-Three (VA-923), attached to the U.S.S. Bon Homme Richard (CVA-31), in attacks on North Korean and Chinese Communist forces. On 25 August 1951, Lieutenant Badewitz was assigned the important mission of destroying the heavily defended railroad and highway bridges located near Saenggiryong, North Korea. He successfully led a series of attacks on these bridges, and scoring direct hits with his general purpose bombs, he aided his flight in knocking out two complete spans of the highway bridge and one large section of the railroad bridge, rendering both of these primary targets completely unusable. His brilliant leadership and accurate strafing and bombing aided his division in heavily damaging and destroying two other highway bridges as TomYon and Ponggang, and important railroad bridges at CyhongYong and Kosong-Dong. He then led his flight in skillful strafing and napalm attacks on a camouflaged enemy locomotive near Usajang, which was destroyed, and six railroad cars, loaded with gasoline and vital foot stuffs, which exploded and completely burned. At Sangnyen-ni, Lieutenant Badewitz made two low-level napalm and strafing runs on ten boxcars, and scored direct hits with his 20-mm. ammunition and napalm, which left five of these boxcars in flames. His courageous leadership and alert aggressiveness, despite the intense and accurate small arms fire encountered at nearly all of these vital targets, made possible this tremendous amount of devastation, which has seriously hampered the enemy effort. His gallant devotion to duty was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 4101 - 3 April 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Guy O. Badger (MCSN: 0-46820), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a Fighter aircraft against the enemy over Korea on 10 August 1951. First Lieutenant Badger, as section leader of a four plane flight, flew through adverse weather and over mountainous terrain on a close air support mission in the area of Komisong-ni. In the face of intense enemy ground fire, he pressed home a series of napalm, rocket and strafing attacks. The airborne controller confirmed the accuracy of this strike and reported that it destroyed enemy supplies, inflicted one hundred and seventy enemy casualties and completely neutralized numerous enemy machine guns in the area. First Lieutenant Badger's superb airmanship, aggressive spirit and courageous action were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander Ralph Maxwell Bagwell (NSN: 0-85753), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of an attack bomber plane and Commanding Officer of Attack Squadron Thirty-Five (VA-35), attached to the U.S.S. Leyte (CV-32), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 11 October to 12 December 1950. A superb leader and skilled airman, Lieutenant Commander Bagwell led his division on search and rescue missions, close air support flights and daring bombing attacks against enemy military targets in Songjin, Ch'onjin, Wonsan, Mapsu, Hungnam, Sinuiju, Hyesanjin, Sakchu, Ch'ongch'ong and Chosin Reservoir. Flying his aircraft in the face of hostile anti-aircraft fire and aerial opposition, he contributed materially to the success of his squadron in inflicting heavy losses upon the enemy and in providing excellent air support for friendly ground forces. On 12 December 1950, while pressing home low-altitude bombing attacks against the enemy in the vicinity of Huich'on, he executed a forced crash landing and was last seen in custody of enemy troops. His cool courage, expert airmanship and steadfast devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 1122 - 2 February 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Austin J. Bailey, Jr. (MCSN: 0-25781), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea while attached to Marine Fighter Squadron Three Hundred Twelve (VMF-312), on 16 October 1951. Captain Bailey, as a member of a twelve plane strike took off on a mission against an enemy railroad bridge as directed by the Joint Operations Center. Despite intense and accurate enemy anti-aircraft fire, Captain Bailey scored direct hits on the target. On the recovery from his first run Captain Bailey's aircraft was hit by enemy fire. He then made two additional attacks on the enemy anti-aircraft positions, destroying both. During these attacks Captain Bailey's aircraft was hit again and he was forced to ditch his plane at sea where he was picked up by an amphibious rescue plane. Captain Bailey's efficient action and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial 1139 - 29 November 1950
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign William C. Bailey (NSN: 0-507924), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights while serving with Attack Squadron One Hundred Fifteen (VA-115), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea during the period from 6 August to 19 October 1950. As Pilot of an Attack Bomber attached to the U.S.S. Philippine Sea (CV-47), he participated in 35 strike missions over enemy territory.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 15192 - 21 September 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Second Lieutenant Jesse "F" Baird (MCSN: 0-58796), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving with a Marine jet fighter squadron in Korea. On 16 June 1953, as a member of a flight of Marine jet fighter-bombers, Second Lieutenant Baird participated in an armed reconnaissance mission. Near Sinanjung-ri, he located a heavily defended road bridge situated on the enemy's supply route and immediately initiated a daring dive bombing attack. Diving in the face of intense hostile anti-aircraft fire, Second Lieutenant Baird skillfully maneuvered his aircraft through the precipitous terrain to score direct bomb hits. Regaining altitude he detected a carefully camouflaged anti-aircraft position and conducted a low level strafing assault that effectively suppressed the defensive fire. His outstanding bombing accuracy and exemplary initiative were responsible for the success of a mission that destroyed a vital enemy bridge and inflicted heavy enemy casualties. Second Lieutenant Baid's courageous conduct and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 15192 - 21 September 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Second Lieutenant Charles E. Baker (MCSN: 0-55326), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Fighting Squadron in Korea. On 15 June 1953, Second Lieutenant Baker led a flight of Marine jet fighter-bombers on a close air support mission against a heavily defended bridge over which enemy troops and supplies were moving in an all-out effort to advance. Promptly locating the objective Second Lieutenant Baker immediately initiated a daring dive bombing attack and despite its accurate hostile anti-aircraft fire scored a direct bomb hit. He then led repeated low-level assaults that destroyed the bridge and inflicted heavy enemy casualties. Regrouping his division, Second Lieutenant Baker sighted a carefully camouflaged enemy ammunition dump in the immediate area and after receiving permission, directed the flight in several coordinated assaults. Diving through an intense barrage of defensive fire to low level, he again scored direct hits with his bombs that caused large secondary explosions. His exceptional bombing accuracy and exemplary leadership were responsible for the success of a mission that substantially reduced pressure on front line units of the United Nations ground forces. Second Lieutenant Baker's courageous conduct, outstanding initiative and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 3114 - 28 February 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major James W. Baker (MCSN: 0-19347), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea. On 10 November 1952, Major Baker led a flight of Marine attack aircraft in an assault on a vital and heavily defended enemy electrical power station in the vicinity of Chaeryong, North Korea. Upon approaching the target area, he directed his flight to remain at a safe altitude and descended to make an individual reconnaissance run to positively identify the objective. He then rejoined his flight and despite intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, led and directed repeated bombing and rocket assaults that completely demolished the transformer building and surrounding high tension terminals. Major Baker's outstanding leadership in organizing and directing the attack was largely responsible for the success of a mission that seriously reduced the electric power available to the enemy. His courageous actions, professional skill, and devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 8934 - 17 June 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major James W. Baker (MCSN: 0-19347), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Attack Squadron in Korea. On 14 December 1952, Major Baker led a flight of four Marine attack aircraft against a heavily defended enemy troop concentration and supply center near the coastal area of Chonnang-ni. Temporarily diverted from his primary target to search for a large cave suspected of housing an enemy ammunition dump, Major Baker conducted a low level reconnaissance. He quickly detected the cave and initiated a rocket assault that scored several damaging hits. Proceeding to his previously assigned target, he instructed the flight to orbit out of range of hostile weapons while he conducted an attack through intense hostile anti-aircraft fire. After deliberately exposing himself to the hostile fire to make certain his flight has spotted the anti-aircraft positions, Major Baker controlled each bombing run with such skill that complete destruction of the enemy installation was achieved and heavy enemy casualties were inflicted. During the final attack on the target, one of the attacking aircraft was hit by the increasingly accurate hostile fire and the pilot was forced to parachute into the icy water off of the coast of North Korea. Immediately alerting rescue facilities, Major Baker directed the remainder of his flight to establish a protective cover over the downed pilot while he made repeated low sweeps, one more exposing himself to enemy fire, in order to keep the pilot in sight. His cool, clear instructions to the helicopter rescue team brought about a swift and successful rescue of the downed pilot. His courageous actions, professional skill, and devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 12266 - 31 December 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Raymond W. Baker (MCSN: 0-28193), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 13 August 1951. Captain Baker, as leader of a flight of four aircraft took off on a close air support mission directed by the Joint Operations Center. He was directed to report to a Tactical Air Controller Airborne near the town of Chuktai-ri. The Controller marked the target which consisted of troops on the reverse slope of a ridge, gun positions on the ridge, and bunkers on the forward slope of the ridge. Captain Baker, disregarding intense enemy small arms fire, made two low runs over the area to determine the exact positions of the enemy targets and the exact position of friendly lines. Then he led his flight on a series of expertly calculated napalm, rocket, and strafing attacks, inflicting seventy-five confirmed enemy casualties, destroying three gun positions, three bunkers, and starting three fires in ammunition or fuel oil dumps. Captain Baker's fearless leadership and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 13032 - 12 August 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Leonard C. Balcom (MCSN: 0-49312), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Attack Squadron in Korea. On 18 February 1953, First Lieutenant Balcom led a flight of Marine attack aircraft on a close air support mission against heavily defended and well-entrenched enemy positions that had been inflicting serious damage on units of the 7th Republic of Korea Division. As he approached the target area, First Lieutenant Balcom instructed the flight to orbit out of range of hostile anti-aircraft fire while he searched out the objective. Locating the carefully camouflaged enemy position in extremely mountainous terrain, he rejoined his flight and, despite heavy hostile ground fire, led an aggressive bombing attack in which he scored direct bomb hits that clearly marked the target for the remainder of his flight. He then conducted an individual napalm attack, diving to minimum altitude through the precipitous terrain, and scored a direct napalm hit that engulfed the area in flames. First Lieutenant Balcom's outstanding bombing accuracy and exemplary leadership were largely responsible for the success of a mission that completely destroyed a major enemy stronghold and substantially reduced pressure on elements of United Nations ground forces. His courageous conduct and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General, XV Corps
General Orders No. 24 - 4 November 1950
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Army Award) to First Lieutenant Charles F. Baldwin, Jr. (MCSN: 0-27581), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving with a Marine Night Fighter Squadron on 29 September 1950, while participating in his first night combat mission and with very limited night fighting experience. Lieutenant Baldwin was directed to attack an enemy strongpoint which was inflicting heavy casualties on friendly forces. Because of darkness and the close proximity of friendly forces to the target, an hour was required for him to locate and identify the target. Although very low on fuel and hampered by almost complete darkness he pressed his attack at dangerously low levels, scored direct hits with rockets and strafing, and completely destroyed the enemy target. Lieutenant Baldwin's skill, courage, and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 13894 - 29 August 1959
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Vernon E. Ball (MCSN: 0-26241), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a carrier-based Marine Attack Squadron in Korea. On 24 February 1953, Major Ball participated in the rescue of a downed Marine aviator who was surrounded by enemy troops deep in hostile territory. With complete disregard for his own safety, Major Ball conducted a series of daring minimum altitude strafing assaults, intentionally drawing the heavy hostile fire away from the downed pilot. Displaying superb airmanship, he skillfully maneuvered his aircraft at low level through the intense and accurate barrages of hostile anti-aircraft fire, and succeeded on several occasions, in completely suppressing all ground fire directed at the downed aviator. Ignoring the increasingly accurate fire that was bursting all around his aircraft, Major Ball conducted repeated dummy strafing assaults at the enemy positions successfully restraining the enemy troops from advancing. Although dangerously low on fuel, he continued these dummy attacks until the rescue was completed. His heroic actions in subjecting himself repeatedly to enemy fire and his exemplary initiative were responsible for the success of a mission that saved the life of a fellow Marine and inflicted heavy enemy casualties. Major Ball's courageous conduct, outstanding professional ability and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 12270 - 31 December 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Dennis W. Ballant (MCSN: 0-24808), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea while serving as a pilot attached to a Maine Fighter Squadron. On 7 July 1951, Captain Ballant took off with his division from an advanced air base on a special strike to destroy a known enemy supply dump. Despite adverse weather and hazardous terrain, Captain Ballant led his flight safely into the objective. Notwithstanding the heavy accurate anti-aircraft fire being received from the target area and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Captain Ballant initiated his attacks. Repeatedly he bombed and strafed the target until the entire area was in smoke and flames. With his remaining bomb load he then attacked a newly built bridge scoring a direct hit. As a result of these attacks a large enemy supply area was completely destroyed and a rail bridge along a main supply rail route was seriously damaged. Captain Ballant's skillful flying and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Dewey E. Ballard is awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. Captain, 15th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, United States Air Force. Captain Dewey Eugene Ballard distinguished himself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight over Korea on April 7, 1951. Captain Ballard took off, alone and unarmed, in an RF-80 aircraft, and flew deep into enemy territory. As he approached his targets, Captain Ballard sighted six enemy MiG-15 type aircraft. Although outnumbered by superior enemy fighters, Captain Ballard continued with his mission, subjecting himself to certain attack. During the process of taking his photographs, Captain Ballard was attacked by the enemy fighters. By his superior flying ability and his knowledge of the enemy fighter capabilities, Captain Ballard was able to outmaneuver them and discourage their attack. As they broke off, Captain Ballard continued with his mission. Again he was attacked, this time by three MiG-15's and again he outmaneuvered the enemy until they broke off the attack. A single MiG-15 engaged Captain Ballard and for the third time in 15 minutes, he was forced to resort to evasive maneuvers. Finding himself extremely low on fuel due to the high power settings necessitated by the aerial combat, Captain Ballard was forced to return to his base. As a result of his tenacity and disregard for personal safety, Captain Ballard was able to obtain information of immeasurable value to the United Nations Forces. By his courage and great devotion to duty, Captain Ballard has brought great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces and the United States Air Force.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 283 - 9 January 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Second Lieutenant Eddy P. Balocco (MCSN: 0-51298), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 25 September 1951. Second Lieutenant Balocco as wingman of the last section of an eight-plane flight, took off on a rail cut mission as directed by the Joint Operations Center. His flight leader proceeded to the vicinity of the town of Sunchon and began to lose altitude in preparation for the attack upon the section of rail lines assigned as the target. As he was turning toward the target, Second Lieutenant Balocco observed twelve enemy aircraft, starting an attack from above. He notified his flight leader of the unexpected threat, jettisoned his bombs, and turned into the enemy. Without regard for his own personal safety, Second Lieutenant Balocco met the attacking enemy planes head on. The unexpected fire brought to bear by Second Lieutenant Balocco and his section leader disrupted the enemy formation thereby diverting the attack from the remainder of their flights. Having broken the initial attack, Second Balocco displayed outstanding tactical ability in coordinating his movements with those of his section leader thereby gaining mutual protection from the enemy aircraft and preventing the enemy from the remainder of his flight. Though outnumbered six-to-one Second Lieutenant Balocco continued to engage the enemy in combat until the enemy broke from the engagement. Second Lieutenant Balocco's efficient action, and devotion to duty, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial 1252 - 23 December 1950
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade George A. Bane (NSN: 0-378314), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving with Attack Squadron Fifty-Five (VA-55), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 19 August to 18 November 1950. As Pilot of an Attack Bomber, he participated in thirty-five strike missions over enemy territory.
Headquarters, Commanding General, 1st Marine Division
General Orders: Serial 28534 - 15 October 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Second Lieutenant James M. Bannan (MCSN: 0-50929), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 15 March 1952. Second Lieutenant Bannan, serving with a Marine Observation Squadron as a pilot of a slow, unarmed, observation type aircraft was on a reconnaissance mission, when he was called upon to direct an air strike by jet type aircraft upon enemy artillery positions. Though he received an intense volume of enemy automatic weapons and small arms fire, he, with complete disregard for his safety made a low, and hazardous run over the enemy positions in order to effectively and accurately mark the target with a smoke grenade. During the air strike, he orbited continuously within range of enemy small arms fire to effectively control the air strike. Though still encountering heavy ground fire from positions in the area, he made another extremely low pass over the target to accurately assess the damage inflicted by the strike. Second Lieutenant Bannan's initiative, coolness under fire, and devotion to duty were exemplary to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 8601 - 7 July 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Robert J. Barbour (MCSN: 0-21057), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as the pilot of a fighter aircraft on 3 March 1952. Captain Barbour, as a member of a four plane flight, took off on a pre-briefed strike to work with an airborne controller, who directed the flight to the target area, which was the village of Kosong. Upon arrival at the designated area, he participated in a series of well coordinated bombing attacks, and despite intense fire form automatic weapons and sharply rising terrain immediately beyond the target, pressed his attack to ground level. With exceptional accuracy he placed his bombs exactly in an enemy Command Post housed in the village, destroyed it and the surrounding buildings, and inflicted fifty enemy casualties. The flight then proceeded to a secondary target, where Captain Barbour, in another series of attacks, contributed to the destruction of several bunkers and the infliction of twenty-five more enemy casualties. Captain Barbour's superb airmanship and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 5163 - 5 June 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant John H. Barclay (MCSN: 0-47744), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in the Korean area on 6 May 1951. Lieutenant Barclay, while serving as a pilot attached to a Marine All-Weather Fighter Squadron, discovered and attacked an enemy vehicle convoy loaded with troops at Hunsan, Korea. Despite the hazards imposed by darkness and the rugged terrain, he aggressively initiated a series of devastating attacks on the enemy. Ignoring intense anti-aircraft and small arms fire he pressed home his attacks against the enemy to minimum safe altitudes to bring his guns and bombs to bear. As a result of his superb airmanship and outstanding courage eighteen enemy vehicles were burned or damaged and numerous casualties inflicted among the enemy troops. His aggressiveness, total disregard for personal danger and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 4600 - 13 April 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Arnold W. Barden (MCSN: 0-33801), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight during operations against the enemy in Korea. Captain Barden, serving as a pilot attached to a Marine All Weather Fighter Squadron engaged in a night intruder mission over central North Korea on the night of 28 October 1941. He carefully reconnoitered the supply routes of the sector to which he was assigned with the assistance of a supporting flare dropping aircraft until at length he noted the lights of a convoy in the vicinity of Ichon. Inasmuch as the convoy appeared to be entering an assembly area, he elected to remain clear until activity ceased and then illuminated the site with flares carried on his own aircraft. A vehicle park was thus revealed and he immediately initiated a series of napalm and strafing attacks, persisting until all ordnance was expended despite intense and continuous automatic weapons fire which commenced with his first attack. He retired from the area leaving behind eight destroyed and two extensively damaged vehicles. Captain Barden's alertness, efficient action, and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 9180 - 16 July 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Arnold W. Barden (MCSN: 0-33801), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight during operations against the enemy in Korea. Captain Barden, serving as a pilot attached to a Marine All Weather Fighter Squadron, engaged in a night intruder mission on the night of 23 February 1952. Carefully reconnoitering the supply routes of his assigned sector, he discovered near Kwach'on -ni a scattered convoy of moving vehicles which he directed the accompanying flare-dropping aircraft to illuminate. Quickly assessing the mountainous terrain in the near vicinity and selecting an avenue of approach and retirement Captain Barden executed a series of napalm, bombing and strafing attacks, which resulted in the complete destruction of nine vehicles. Despite the hazards of mountainous terrain, restricted visibility and anti-aircraft fire, he persisted in his attack until all his ordnance was expended. Captain Barden's alertness, superb airmanship and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 1962 - 22 February 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Frank P. Barker, Jr. (MCSN: 0-9417), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 14 November 1951. Major Barker, as leader of a flight of 12 AD's took off on a pre-briefed railcut mission at the direction of the Joint Operations Center. Arriving at the target area between Wonsan and Hoehang-ni, Major Barker split his flight into three divisions and led a well planned and executed simultaneous attack, causing diversion of the intense automatic weapons fire being received, and scoring several direct railcuts with 1,000-pound bombs. While returning to his home base, Major Barker, on his own initiative, contacted Bromide Able, a Tactical Air Direction Center with the FIRST Marine Division, for possible use of his flight for close air support or an interdiction strike to utilize rockets and bombs not expended on the primary target. He was directed to contact Marlin Mosquito 4 for control. At the direction of this controller, Major Barker led the attack against enemy troop concentrations and storage areas in and near the village of Yangjin-ni, executing numerous bombing and strafing runs. Disregarding intense small arms and automatic weapons fire, he made repeated bombing runs and scored direct bomb hits on seven buildings, resulting in explosions and secondary fires. After his bombs were expended, he led his flight to the nearby village of Sapyong-ni and pressing home his attack at very low altitude, strafed this area, resulting in several fires and heavy casualties to enemy troops. Major Barker's initiative, leadership, and efficient actions, and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial 1093 - 20 November 1950
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander Jesse Theron Barker (NSN: 106011), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving with Fighter Squadron FIFTY-FOUR (VF-54), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Korean Theater from 3 July to 21 September 1950. As pilot of a Fighter Plane, he participated in thirty-five missions over enemy territory.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial 49 - 13 January 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Lynn M. Barker (NSN: 0-507926), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving in Fighter Squadron One Hundred Fourteen (VF-114), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 6 August to 17 October 1950. As a Pilot of a Corsair Fighter Plane, he participated in thirty-five strike missions over enemy territory.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial 1123 - 29 November 1950
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Raymond H. Barker (NSN: 0-508326), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving with Attack Squadron One Hundred Fifteen (VA-115), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Korean Theater from 5 August to 19 October 1950. As pilot of an Attack Bomber he participated in thirty-five strike missions over enemy territory.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 17596 - 6 November 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Captain Carl Francis Barlow (MCSN: 0-35722), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of Marine Attack Squadron Two Hundred Twelve (VMA-212), in Korea. On 10 July 1953, Captain Barlow, after successfully completing a rescue air patrol, led a flight of Marine attack aircraft on an aerial assault against an enemy gun position situated in the mouth of a cave. Promptly locating the carefully camouflaged objective in mountainous terrain, Captain Barlow initiated a dive bombing assault. Diving through intense hostile anti-aircraft fire, he scored direct bomb hits that caused severe damage. With the target clearly marked, he then directed the remainder of the flight in a low level bombing and strafing attack. Captain Barlow's exceptional accuracy and exemplary leadership were responsible for the success of a flight that materially aided in the continuing effort to support friendly front line units. His courageous conduct, superb airmanship and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
It is recommended that the following individual be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. Barmore, Jan W. Captain 12th Fighter Bomber Squadron, 18th Fighter Bomber Group, United States Air Force, On 16 September, Captain (then First Lieutenant) Jan W. Barmore Distinguished himself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. Captain Barmore displayed outstanding airmanship and aggressive spirit while flying as element leader in a flight of four (4) F-51 type aircraft in support of a unit of advancing United Nations ground forces. Weather was below marginal during the entire flight and the visibility in the target area was extremely poor. Despite the additional hazard of intense 20 millimeter anti-aircraft and fifty caliber automatic weapons fire, Captain Barmore pressed devastating attacks against all enemy strongholds until his entire supply of ammunition was expended. He personally destroyed one (1) heavy tank, three (3) trucks and four (4) warehouses filled with ammunition and supplies, and damaged one (1) other vehicle. As a result of this mission, vital enemy vehicles, supplies, and munitions employed against friendly forces were destroyed. As of this date of this recommendation, Captain Barmore has flown a total of one hundred and one (101) combat sorties against the enemy of the United Nations Forces in Korea. Commanding Officer 18th Fighter Bomber Group APO 970
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 4514 - 12 April 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Harold Barnard, Jr. (MCSN: 0-18303), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 11 September 1951. Major Barnard, while operating off the carrier U.S.S. Sicily (CVE-118) in the Yellow Sea, was ordered to lead a flight of four F-4U type aircraft on an armed reconnaissance of the Chinampo area. Approaching the coast, three enemy boats were observed lying at anchor. Major Barnard immediately initiated a dive bombing attack on the boats and pressing the attack aggressively, scored a direct hit on one boat with a five hundred pound bomb destroying it and the cargo aboard. He then led his flight in a rocket and strafing attack on the remaining vessels and left them in a sinking condition. Continuing the reconnaissance, Major Barnard observed a string of eight railroad cars at a siding. Launching a rocket attack, he was observed getting two direct hits on the cars damaging them extensively. On two subsequent rocket and strafing runs, three boxcars were destroyed and five damaged. Proceeding inland heavy enemy anti-aircraft fire was encountered, but disregarding his own personal safety Major Barnard led the flight calmly through the barrage and attacked a railroad bridge near the town of Changyon. The bridge was heavily damaged in the ensuing attacks. Major Barnard's fearless devotion to duty, courageous leadership and efficient action were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial 181 - 5 February 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Chief Aviation Machinist's Mate Robert O. Barnes, United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in the Korean Theater during the period 29 November to 1 December 1950, as Pilot of a Helicopter attached to Helicopter Squadron ONE, embarked on the U.S.S. Rochester (CA-124). In complete disregard for his own personal safety, he flew his helicopter on eight flights into areas surrounded and cut off by the enemy and aircraft fire. His courage and expert airmanship were responsible for the successful completion of each mission. His loyalty and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
Serial: 2157 - March 18, 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Staff Sergeant William E. Barnes (MCSN: 600993), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flights against the enemy, as crew chief of an R-4D transport aircraft from 1 December 1950 to 7 December 1950. Staff Sergeant Barnes made twelve landings and take-offs from extremely small and hastily constructed airstrips located at Koto-ri and Hagaru-ri, Korea. A concentration of enemy troops, estimated to number seventy-thousand, completely surrounded these airstrips, and at the Koto-ri strip, enemy troops were entrenched within two hundred yards. Despite enemy small arms fire and other hazards, Staff Sergeant Barnes, as a member of the crew, made these courageous flights to carry ammunition, food, and medical supplies to the FIRST Marine Division, and then to evacuate the wounded to rear areas. His devotion to duty and cool courage in the face of grave danger was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Division
General Orders: Serial 19404 - 8 June 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain George W. Barnett (MCSN: 0-27387), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea while serving with a Marine Observation Squadron on 13 January 1953. Serving as a helicopter pilot, Captain Barnett displayed outstanding courage, professional skill and devotion to duty. Although faced with the extremely hazardous conditions of darkness and haze, he courageously volunteered to evacuate two critically wounded Marines from a forward aid station. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he expertly maneuvered his aircraft into the dangerous approach and gained the landing strip safely. The two emergency evacuation patients were hurriedly loaded onto the helicopter and under the same hazardous conditions, he courageously flew them to a rear area medical aid station for hasty treatment to be administered to the two injured Marines. Captain Barnett's alertness, efficient action and outstanding devotion to duty served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 11603 - 11 December 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain John E. Barnett (MCSN: 0-21762), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea while serving as a pilot attacked to a Marine Fighter Squadron. On 18 June 1951, Captain Barnett took off with his flight from an advanced airbase upon request of a Marine forward air controller for close air support. Despite hazardous terrain and conditions of reduced visibility, Captain Barnett skillfully and safely led his flight to the target area. Quickly identifying his targets and working in close conjunction with an airborne controller, Captain Barnett, despite heavy and accurate small arms fire and with utter disregard for his own personal safety, made repeated attacks against enemy positions which were inflicting casualties among friendly forces. As a result of his fearless bombing, napalm and strafing attacks, some eighty enemy troops were killed and enemy fire on friendly troops ceased. Finishing the attacks on this target, Captain Barnett led his flight further inland into enemy territory and by reconnaissance found an enemy artillery position and enemy vehicles. Again, fearlessly leading the attack, these were bombed and strafed, so as to completely destroy the vehicles and severely damage the artillery position. Captain Barnett's skillful flying and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 541 - March 06, 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander Marvin E. Barnett (NSN: 0-83347), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while leading a flight of jet fighter planes in Fighter Squadron One Hundred Seventy-Two (VF-172), attached to the U.S.S. Essex (CV-9), as a part of a large strike group attacking a vital industrial target near Sokhyon, North Korea, on 28 October 1951. Exhibiting cool courage in the face of great odds, Commander Barnett executed his assigned mission of flak suppression by coordinating attacks and leading his flight in repeated covering action through a heavy concentration of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire. These unrelenting attacks destroyed many of the enemy batteries and rendered the fire of those remaining ineffective, greatly contributing to the success of the entire action. His superb airmanship, daring tactics and intrepid leadership reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 472 - 20 January 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Claude O. Barnhill, Jr. (MCSN: 0-28796), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flights over enemy territory from 28 September 1950 to 4 December 1950. Captain Barnhill successfully completed his first through thirty-fifth combat missions against the enemy over Korea, where enemy fire was either received or expected. His actions throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 11602 - 11 December 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Alymer Russel Barnum (MCSN: 0-32732), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea while serving as a pilot attached to a Marine Fighter Squadron. On 4 August 1951, Captain Barnum led a flight in close support of United Nations ground troops. Working in conjunction with an airborne controller, Captain Barnum's flight was directed to a ridge containing fifty dug-in enemy troops in bunkers. Despite intense fire from the enemy's positions and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Captain Barnum repeatedly pressed home his attacks until the bunkers and many enemy troops had been destroyed. Captain Barnum then led his flight to an enemy supply area and again, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, pressed home his attacks until two stores of vital supplies were set afire. Captain Barnum's skillful flying and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 10502 - 29 June 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Robert O. Barnum (MCSN: 0-34876), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Attack Squadron in Korea. On 7 July 1952, Captain Barnum led a flight of Marine attack aircraft on a close air support mission against a heavily defended and well entrenched enemy concentration of artillery and automatic weapons that had been inflicting serious damage on advancing units of the FIRST Marine Division. Promptly locating the carefully camouflaged batteries in extremely mountainous terrain, Captain Barnum initiated a daring low-level napalm assault. Diving to minimum altitude through an intense barrage of hostile anti-aircraft fire he scored a direct napalm hit, engulfing two enemy mortar positions in flames and clearly marking the target for the remainder of the flight. He then led his division in repeated bombing and strafing assaults that completely destroyed the enemy stronghold. Captain Barnum's own bombing accuracy and exemplary leadership were largely responsible for the success of a mission that inflicted heavy enemy casualties and substantially reduced pressure on front line elements of the United Nations ground forces. His courageous conduct, outstanding initiative and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commanding General, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
Serial No. 11195 - 30 November 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Joseph L. Barr (MCSN: 0-47355), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 22 October 1951. Serving as the pilot of a slow, unarmed, observation aircraft, First Lieutenant Barr was on a reconnaissance flight forward of the friendly lines in the Kurye-dong area, when he was assigned the mission of locating enemy artillery which was inflicting casualties on friendly forces. He immediately, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, searched the area at a dangerously low altitude, even though his aircraft was hit and damaged by the intense enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire. By his courageous actions, he located the enemy artillery and skillfully conducted a fire mission which destroyed the positions and neutralized the area, thereby reducing the casualties of the friendly force. First Lieutenant Barr's courageous actions and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commanding General, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
Serial No. 26653 - 6 September 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Joseph L. Barr (MCSN: 0-47355), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 22 November 1951, as a Marine observation pilot. First Lieutenant Barr, completing a weather reconnaissance mission over the front lines, detected flashes from enemy artillery fire in the Ipo-ri area where friendly units were encountering heavy artillery fires. Although hampered by freezing rain and snow and limited visibility, First Lieutenant Barr flew his slow, unarmed aircraft in search of the enemy gun positions. With complete disregard for his own personal safety he reconnoitered at dangerously low altitudes, thereby exposing himself to intense small arms and anti-aircraft machine gun fire. He located several active artillery positions and immediately directed a fire mission on them. Twice he returned to an area of warmer air currents to de-ice the airfoils on his aircraft. Subject to continuous fire from two heavy anti-aircraft machine guns he made frequent low passes to estimate the damage. His selfless devotion to duty and professional competence were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander, Naval Forces Far East
Serial 15724 - December 11, 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Ernest E. Bartlett, Jr. (NSN: 0-157921), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as a Patrol Plane Commander of a PBM attached to Patrol Squadron SEVEN HUNDRED THIRTY-ONE (VP-731) during an operational mission against enemy forces west of Korea on 31 July 1952. When Lieutenant Bartlett's plane was attacked by two enemy MiG-15 fighters, he assumed control of the plane and through his gallant maneuvers and defensive tactics, was able to save his plane despite six firing runs by the enemy which resulted in the death of two crew members and the wounding of two others. After the engagement was broken off, Lieutenant Bartlett elected to make an emergency open-sea landing near friendly forces to insure prompt medical aid for his two critically wounded crew members. This he accomplished safely despite adverse conditions of wind and sea. When it was determined that the swell was too heavy for transfer of the wounded by rubber raft, Lieutenant Bartlett promptly beached his plane. After the wounded had been removed, the plane broached in the heavy seas and was stranded by the outgoing tide. At the next high time, and mainly through the persistence and determination of Lieutenant Bartlett, the plane was re-floated and thereby saved. Lieutenant Bartlett's superior ability, coolness and resourcefulness while under heavy strain is considered the primary reason for the save return of the plane and the crew. His devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 6566 - 8 July 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Raleigh E. Barton, Jr. (MCSN: 0-47199), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a pilot attached to a Marine Aircraft Group from 15 September 1950 through 4 December 1950. First Lieutenant Barton successfully completed his first through thirty-fifth combat mission in support of our ground forces, destroying and inflicting great damage to concentrations of North Korean vehicles, material and personnel. By his airmanship and devotion to duty in the face of enemy anti-aircraft fire, he contributed materially to the success of our troops. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel Walter R. Bartosh (MCSN: 0-9015), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Fighter Squadron in Korea from 10 January 1953 to 15 January 1953, during a series of massed aerial assaults on a heavily defended bridge complex in the vicinity of Sinarju. Confronted by intense anti-aircraft fire and under constant threat of attack by superior jet interceptors, Lieutenant Colonel Bartosh led three successive bombing missions to suppress hostile fire directed at the main striking force. On one of these strikes he was directed to engage camouflaged anti-aircraft batteries that had previously inflicted heavy damage on attacking aircraft. Successfully locating the concealed target, Lieutenant Colonel Bartosh attacked through a barrage of hostile fire to score direct bomb hits that silenced the weapons and clearly marked the target for the remainder of his flight. He then controlled each bombing run with such skill that complete destruction of the objective was achieved. Lieutenant Colonel Bartosh's aggressive leadership and exceptional bombing accuracy were responsible for the success of a mission that substantially reduced enemy opposition during succeeding attacks on the vital target. His courageous conduct and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial 342 - 8 March 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade] Wade R. Bascom (NSN: 0-389348), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving with Patrol Squadron Forty-Six (VP-46), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 27 June to 18 October 1950. As a Pilot of a patrol plane he participated in 35 operational flights over hostile territory.
General Orders: Serial 465 - 4 May 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Roland Russell Batson, Jr. (NSN: 0-122817), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in a strike against an enemy North Korean supply route. On 11 November 1950, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Batson, as leader of two divisions of Skyraider dive bombers, in an attack on a railway bridge over the Tongno River, suffered engine failure in his dive, due to enemy anti-aircraft fire. Despite his engine failure, and in the face of continued accurate fire, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Batson displayed superb qualities of leadership and cool judgment in extreme emergency and continued his dive, pinpointing his bombs on the bridge. Thus through his courage and zealous devotion to duty, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Batson, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, set an example for the remainder of his flight to follow, contributing materially to the destruction of this main enemy supply route before he abandoned the attack and executed a skillful wheels-up landing in a nearby rice field. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Batson's actions throughout reflect highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander 7th Fleet
Serial 1570 - August 13, 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Hugh Nash Batten (NSN: 0-326456), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a jet fighter aircraft attached to Fighting Squadron Ninety-One (VF-91), aboard the U.S.S. Philippine Sea (CV-47), on 18 July 1953. As a flight leader over Communist held North Korea, Lieutenant Batten led his flight of jet fighter aircraft on a highly successful armed reconnaissance mission in the heavily defended Anbyon area. Displaying the aggressive and inspirational leadership characteristic of his previous combat missions, he sought out and destroyed four heavily loaded supply vehicles although opposed by intense enemy anti-aircraft fire. In the area immediately north of the Anbyon rail terminus, he led his flight on five attacks against a heavily defended supply area and although again receiving intense anti-aircraft fire, he destroyed five supply buildings and heavily damaged two others. On his fourth attack, his marksmanship resulted in a violent secondary explosion which covered the target area with smoke and flames. Lieutenant Batten's consistently outstanding airmanship and reconnaissance technique denied the Communist Forces valuable supplies necessary to conduct projected front line assaults against the friendly ground forces. His competent leadership and uncompromising sense of duty in carrying the war to the enemy, contributed materially to the success of the Philippine Sea in its assigned missions. His actions reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 11422 - 26 August 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Arthur W. Bauer (MCSN: 0-36576), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 30 November 1951. Captain Bauer, a member of an eight plane flight diverted from a close air support mission and reassigned to attack tanks assaulting allied supply warehouses near Oeryomison-ni, skillfully detected as he dived in the number five position three enemy tanks which had eluded the main aerial onslaught. Aggressively attacking the tanks, Captain Bauer rendered all three tanks useless by virtue of direct hits on low level dive-bombing runs. Subsequent assaults with rockets and machine guns on accompanying troops and fire positions were expertly delivered by Captain Bauer despite intense anti-aircraft fire. As a result of his courageous and proficient actions, four direct rocket hits were scored on the tanks, numerous casualties were inflicted and much of the automatic weapons fire from the surrounding positions was silenced. Captain Bauer's keen alertness and unswerving devotion to duty in the face of tremendous odds throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 9156 - 15 July 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Master Sergeant Eldon L. Baumwart (MCSN: 642146), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight in Korea while serving as a pilot attached to a Marine All Weather Fighter Squadron, engaged in a night intruder mission over eastern North Korea on the night of 7 March 1952. After carefully reconnoitering the assigned target area, Master Sergeant Baumwart discovered a convoy of vehicles moving along the road near Ryon-ni and directed the accompanying flare-dropping aircraft to illuminate the area. Quickly assessing the mountainous terrain and choosing a feasible lane of approach and retirement, Master Sergeant Baumwart executed a series of napalm, bombing and strafing attacks which resulted in the destruction of six supply-laden vehicles. He persisted in these attacks until his ordnance was expended despite the hazards imposed by mountainous terrain, restricted visibility and continuous anti-aircraft fire. Master Sergeant Baumwart's alertness, superb airmanship and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander Naval Forces Far East
General Orders: Serial 1815 - 5 March 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Machinist's Mate Third Class Alfred E. Baxter (NSN: 3251287), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as a Member of a Patrol Plane Crew in Patrol Squadron Forty-Seven (VP-47), during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, from 2 July to 25 December 1950. Completing thirty-six combat missions during this period, he participated in daring strikes against the enemy in the face of imminent hostile anti-aircraft fire and aerial opposition. By his outstanding skill, courage and loyal devotion to duty throughout, he contributed materially to the success of his squadron and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 116o2 - 11 December 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Leslie W. Bays (MCSN: 0-38145), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 4 June 1951. Captain Bays demonstrated outstanding ability in navigating to the target area under extremely poor weather conditions. He led his flight to a low altitude in order to conduct his mission and soon found an enemy armored column west of the town of Chorwon. Captain Bays immediately began a series of bomb, rocket and strafing attacks, in the course of which he scored four direct hits. One armored vehicle and three trucks were destroyed, and another armored vehicle was damaged. Captain Bays left the burning column and continued his reconnaissance toward the town of Kosong where he found a foot patrol led by a light car. Without regard for his own personal safety, he led a series of expertly executed attacks under the low cloud cover, killing at least twenty of the troops and destroying the light car. Captain Bays' courageous leadership, efficient actions and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General, 1st Marine Division
General Orders: Serial No. 1591 - 31 January 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Donald A. Beam (MCSN: 0-47492), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea. On 28 November 1952, Captain Beam led a flight of Marine attack aircraft assigned a mission of seeking out and destroying enemy automatic weapons then firing on elements of the FIRST Marine Division. Disregarding a malfunctioning engine that prevented his gaining normal approach altitude, Captain Beam proceeded to the objective area at an intermediate altitude below the remainder of his flight. Upon arrival, he promptly located the camouflaged enemy weapons and initiated the attack through intense defensive fires, effectively marking the target with direct hits by his own bombs. He then directed the other elements of the flight in the complete destruction of enemy bunkers. Captain Beam's skillful and resolute leadership, courageous conduct and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 10506 - 9 November 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Mont L. Beamon (MCSN: 0-27904), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea, on 14 September 1951. Captain Beamon, as Section Leader of a flight of four F-9F's took off on a close air support mission directed by the Joint Operations Center. The flight was directed by an airborne controller to attack enemy bunkers and troops dug in on a ridge near the town of Mumdung-ni. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Captain Beamon made several low reconnaissance runs over the target in order to determine the exact positions of the bunkers to be destroyed. When the flight leader was hit by enemy fire during a napalm attack, Captain Beamon assumed command and despite intense enemy fire from small arms and automatic weapons, led a series of expertly executed napalm, bombing and strafing attacks upon the enemy positions. Captain Beamon personally scored two direct hits with napalm on the enemy bunkers, and his accurate bombing and strafing inflicted heavy casualties upon the enemy. When visual contact was lost, due to approaching darkness, he coordinated the attack by radio. Captain Beamon's courageous leadership, efficient action and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Glenn J. Beadle for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Flight Leader in a flight of four (4) F-86 type aircraft, 18th Fighter Bomber Wing, Fifth Air Force, on 10 July 1953. Lieutenant Beadle displayed exceptional airmanship and leadership while navigating his flight direct to the target area, West of Chorwon, Korea. Lieutenant Beadle quickly identified the target and initiated a devastating attack on enemy personnel shelters, mortar positions and automatic weapons positions. Despite intense anti-aircraft and small arms fire, Lieutenant Beadle strafed with unerring accuracy and dropped his bombs directly on the target area, accurately marking it for the remainder of his flight. Because of Lieutenant Beadle's superb airmanship and exceptional dive-bombing skill, three (3) enemy caves were closed, three (3) large secondary explosions were observed, four (4) mortar positions were destroyed and one hundred and fifty (150) yards of enemy trench line were destroyed. As a result of this highly successful mission, vital enemy troop concentration and mortar positions were destroyed, seriously hampering the enemy's potential in that sector at a time when the enemy was threatening to break through United Nations frontline positions. Throughout his entire combat tour, Lieutenant Beadle has displayed outstanding leadership, airmanship and dive-bombing skill in destroying the enemy. Through his skill, courage and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Beadle has brought great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Headquarters, Commander Naval Forces Far East
General Orders: Serial No. 1764 - 3 March 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Chief Aviation Machinist's Mate Paul B. Beaty (NSN: 2582273), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as member of a Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron FORTY-TWO (VP-42) during the Korean Conflict. Participating in 36 missions against enemy forces during the period 20 August to 31 December 1950, in areas where enemy aircraft and anti-aircraft fire could be expected, he contributed materially to the success of his squadron. His skill, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial No. 1131 - 27 November 1950
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Robert Alden Beavers (NSN: 0-508329), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the Korean Theater during the period 5 August to 22 October 1950. As a Pilot of an attack bomber in Attack Squadron Fifty-Five (VA-55), he participated in thirty-five strike missions over enemy territory.
The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Airman First Class Harley R. Beck, Jr., for outstanding achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Gunner of a B-26 attack bomber, 34 Bombardment Wing (L), Fifth Air Force on the night of 17 October 1952. Airman Beck displayed outstanding airmanship and gunnery skill while on an armed reconnaissance over the enemy's main supply route between Suan and Sokung in North Korea. An enemy convoy of twenty-five vehicles was sighted and immediately taken under attack in a series of bombing and firing passes. Airman Beck, utilizing superior marksmanship, scored several direct hits on these moving targets. These aggressive and highly coordinated attacks resulted in the destruction of five supply-laden vehicles thus depriving the enemy of vital supplies. By his high skill, courage and devotion to duty, Airman Beck has brought great credit upon himself, his organization, and the United States Air Force.
Headquarters, Commander Naval Forces Far East
General Orders: Serial No. 1815 - 5 March 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Ordnanceman First Class Henry J. Beck (NSN: 7475828), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as a Member of a Patrol Plane Crew in Patrol Squadron FORTY-SEVEN (VP-47), during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, from 2 July to 25 December 1950. Completing thirty-six combat missions during this period, he participated in daring strikes against the enemy in the face of imminent hostile anti-aircraft fire and aerial opposition. By his outstanding skill, courage and loyal devotion to duty throughout, he contributed materially to the success of his squadron and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant James T. Beck (AFSN: AO-2093444), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a B-26 attack bomber, 3d Bombardment Wing (L), FIFTH Air Force, on the night of 22 September 1952. Lieutenant Beck displayed outstanding airmanship and flying ability while on armed reconnaissance over the enemy's main supply route between Kang-dong and Singye, North Korea. Several enemy convoys were sighted and immediately brought under attack. Despite the rugged terrain features a series of low level glide bombing and strafing attacks were pressed against these lucrative targets. These highly successful attacks resulted in the destruction of eleven enemy vehicles by fire and explosion, thereby depriving the enemy of vital supplies and equipment. By his unusual ability, courage and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Beck has brought great credit upon himself, his organization and the United States Air Force.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 13032 - 12 August 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major John D. Beck (MCSN: 0-24943), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Fighter Squadron in Korea. On 1 March 1953, Major Beck led a flight of four jet fighter-bombers on a close air support mission to relieve enemy pressure upon elements of the FIRST Marine Division. As the flight orbited over the pre-briefed target area, an emergency call was received directing it to assist elements of the U.S. 7th Division which were under fire from a self-propelled heavy gun then inflicting considerable damage upon friendly troops. Although well concealed and located in precipitous terrain which made it inaccessible to friendly artillery and mortar fire, Major Beck quickly located the target and expeditiously maneuvered the flight into the best position for the attack. Initiating a daring low-level napalm attack through increasingly accurate anti-aircraft and small arms fire, he successfully silenced the enemy weapon, leaving the entire area engulfed in flames. He then led the flight on repeated strafing runs to insure complete destruction of the target. Major Beck's daring courage and unerring marksmanship contributed substantially in relieving hostile pressure on the hard pressed troops of the U.S. 7th Division. His courageous actions, superb airmanship and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 4204 - 5 April 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Master Sergeant Kenneth R. Beck (MCSN: 625997), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea. On 29 November 1951, Master Sergeant Beck, as a member of a flight of four F-4U's was directed by an airborne controller to hit a target near the town of Hajisong-ni. The target consisted of a convoy of enemy trucks concealed in a deep ravine. As Master Sergeant Beck began his first napalm run, he encountered intense thirty-seven millimeter anti-aircraft fire, but with complete disregard for his own personal safety, he continued his attack and scored a direct hit on one of the trucks. Despite treacherous terrain and the continuous enemy fire, Master Sergeant Beck expertly executed a total of seven napalm, rocket, and strafing runs. He was directly responsible for completely destroying two trucks, and seriously damaging three others. Master Sergeant Beck's efficient action, courageous example and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, 3rd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 104 - 28 December 1950
First Lieutenant James M. Becker, 02866, Infantry, 3d Infantry Division, United States Army, is posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for valor while piloting an airplane on a flying mission against an armed enemy. Lieutenant Becker, while attached to 1st Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment as an Army Aviator, received the hazardous mission on 24 November 1950 of locating enemy positions in a deep mountain ravine 15 miles south of Chungsin, Korea. Lieutenant Becker was pilot of an I-16 type liaison aircraft. Lieutenant Becker, in order to accomplish his mission, and knowing the extra hazards involved, unhesitatingly chose to contour fly the valley in order more effectively to accomplish his mission. This placed the aircraft in a position vulnerable to enemy fire and to the violent turbulence encountered in a deep ravine. As a result of Lieutenant Becker's skillful and intrepid flying, valuable information was gained as to enemy locations and terrain which would have required fast patrols days to gather with considerable risk of lives and equipment. Lieutenant Becker's actions reflect great credit upon himself and upon the military service. Entered the military service from the State of Virginia.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 3309 - 4 March 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Master Sergeant Robert P. Becker (MCSN: 323393), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea. On 28 January 1953, Master Sergeant Becker served as radar operator of a Marine jet night-fighter escorting a flight of medium bombers in a night attack on enemy installations. Warned of an unidentified aircraft rapidly closing on the bomber formation thirty thousand feet above Sinanju, Master Sergeant Becker assisted in the interception of an enemy jet fighter. In the ensuing aerial duel he established direct radar contact with the violently maneuvering enemy plane and continually tracked its flight until it was ultimately destroyed less than fifteen hundred feet above the ground. By his skillful operation of the radar equipment in perfect fulfillment of the pilot's requirements, Master Sergeant Becker contributed substantially to the success of a mission that protected friendly bombers from enemy interception and accomplished destruction of an enemy fighter in a night action. His courageous conduct, professional competence, and devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 4102 - 3 April 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain William H. Beckett (MCSN: 0-24780), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 27 December 1951. Captain Beckett, as leader of a four-plane fighter strike, proceeded to the enemy held island of Sousuap-to. Exhibiting skillful airmanship, he led his division in several low level attacks against a cleverly concealed foe. In spite of intense enemy ground fire, eight junks were sunk and 23 damaged, 24 buildings were destroyed, and a large secondary explosion was observed. Having thus driven the enemy into the open, one hundred and eighty enemy casualties were inflicted as a result of repeated strafing runs, which were carried to minimum altitudes. Captain Beckett's aggressive leadership and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 7845 - 22 June 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain William H. Beckett (MCSN: 0-24780), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as the pilot of a fighter aircraft against the enemy in Korea on 14 January 1952. Captain Beckett, as a member of a flight of six corsairs, took off on an attack against the island of Changin-do. This island contained heavy concentrations of troops and supplies for a possible invasion of friendly islands. Captain Beckett's primary mission was to bomb the buildings on the island. By means of accurate bombing, he routed several hundred enemy troops out into open fields and hills. Flying low, in the face of intense small arms fire, Captain Beckett acted as the spotter and staging attacks against the exposed troops. Captain Beckett scored two direct rocket hits on an enemy filled trench, causing a secondary fire which destroyed a store of supplies. The total results obtained by this flight were an estimated two hundred and seventy-five enemy casualties in the open area, and possibly many more casualties were obscured by destroyed buildings. Also damaged were several small boats on and near the beach, an enemy fuel dump and supplies. Captain Beckett's skillful airmanship contributed materially to his destruction of the once strong enemy. His aggressiveness and undaunted devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 1182 - May 18, 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Third Gold Star in lieu of a Fourth Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander Marshall U. Beebe (NSN: 0-77807), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights as Commander, Carrier Air Group Five, attached to and serving on board the U.S.S. Essex (CV-9), against the enemy in the Sokyen area of North Korea. On 21 October 1951, while leading an armed reconnaissance flight of three jet fighter aircraft, Commander Beebe discovered, reconnoitered, and attacked in the face of the intense, accurate anti-aircraft fire, large key installations in the vicinity of Sokyen, North Korea. The volume of anti-aircraft fire convinced Commander Beebe that the target was of major importance. Confirming photographs were obtained and Commander Beebe made detailed plans for destroying the enemy installations and volunteered to lead the attack group. On 28 October 1951 Commander Beebe was in command of a strike group consisting of forty aircraft launched against the enemy installation at Sokyen, North Korea. Knowing full well that it was heavily defended by anti-aircraft batteries but determined to destroy this important target, Commander Beebe led the strike group in to the first attack. The anti-aircraft fire was heavy and accurate but fearlessly, courageously, and with utter disregard for his own safety Commander Beebe led six separate attacks on the target. His courageous leadership was a source of inspiration to the entire attack group. Although planes were damaged by the intense anti-aircraft fire each attack was pressed home, thereby succeeding in inflicting major damage to the enemy without the loss of a single aircraft. By his outstanding planning, courageous leadership, and superb airmanship in the face of tremendous odds, Commander Beebe contributed materially to the extensive and costly damage inflicted on the enemy. His zealous devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander 7th Fleet
Serial 1631 - August 20, 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander Bruce A. Bell, United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as plot of a fighter plane attached to Fighter Squadron One Hundred Fifty-Four (VF-154), on board the U.S.S. Princeton (CV-37), on 19 July 1953. Lieutenant Commander Bell, flying as a strike leader of an eight plane armed reconnaissance flight over communist held North Korea in the Pyong Yang area, led his flight through intense anti-aircraft fire and destroyed nineteen trucks and damaged twenty-three others. Arriving in the area, Lieutenant Commander Bell's flight was immediately taken under fire by intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire. He began a high speed approach to the area where the fire was most intense. Upon close examination he discovered a truck convoy loading large quantities of supplies. Directing an immediate attack, Lieutenant Commander Bell scored a hit causing a secondary explosion. Despite continuous anti-aircraft fire from the area surrounding the target, repeated attacks were made obtaining numerous secondary explosions in which large quantities of ammunition and inflammables were exploded and set fire, nineteen trucks were completely destroyed and twenty-three others were so heavily damaged as to preclude their future use. His exemplary leadership, keen perception and tactical skill enabled his flight to inflict heavy damage to the enemy's supply and transportation system. His courageous conduct and professional skill contributed directly to the success of the PRINCETON in its assigned missions and to the termination of hostilities with Communist Forces in North Korea. His actions and steadfast devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
Serial: 1039 - January 31, 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain George Theodore Benn Bell (MCSN: 0-37188), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of Marine Fighting Squadron Three Hundred Twelve (VMF-312), on 5 September 1951, in the vicinity of Ponchong-kok, Korea. While on a close air support mission, Captain Bell leading the second section of a four plane division, contributed materially to the neutralization of a heavily-fortified enemy strong point. Heavy ground fire and rough mountainous terrain made accurate firing runs extremely hazardous but despite these circumstances and the fact that he was painfully wounded by anti-aircraft fire, Captain Bell made repeated low level napalm and strafing attacks, which inflicted heavy casualties on enemy troops and rendered the strong point ineffectual. Following the completion of his mission Captain Bell, although in great pain from his wound, rejoined his flight and returned safely to base. Throughout the engagement and the return flight, Captain Bell's outstanding display of courage and skill were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 3864 - 28 April 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain James P. Bell (MCSN: 0-29498), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a pilot attached to a Marine Aircraft Group from 19 September to November 1950. Captain Bell successfully completed his first through thirty-fifth combat mission in support of our ground forces, destroying and inflicting great damage to concentrations of North Korean vehicles, material and personnel. By his airmanship and devotion to duty in the face of enemy anti-aircraft fire, he contributed materially to the success of our troops. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 6672 - 21 July 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain James P. Bell (MCSN: 0-29498), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a pilot of a fighter plane against the enemy on 6 June 1951. Captain Bell while leading a four plane flight on a close air support mission east of the Kweach'on Reservoir in Korea, worked in conjunction with a Marine Ground Controller whose progress was being held up by several hundred Chinese Communist troops. In spite of intense small arms fire and extremely adverse weather conditions, Captain Bell repeatedly led his flight in attacking entrenched enemy troops at minimum altitude with napalm, rockets and strafing. These successful attacks enabled the United Nations forces to occupy this important objective with negligible opposition. Three hundred dead enemy were confirmed by the occupying forces. With unerring judgment and outstanding airmanship, Captain Bell dealt a damaging blow to the enemy. In so doing his alertness and efficient actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Division
General Orders No. 14706 - 1 May 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Lewis B. Bell (MCSN: 0-53578), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea while serving with the FIRST Marine Division on 16 December 1952. Serving as an aerial observer, First Lieutenant Bell displayed exceptional courage, professional skill and devotion to duty. Despite the extreme danger involved, he voluntarily remained in an area where he was subjected to intense anti-aircraft fire in order to obtain vital intelligence information. As a result of his determined efforts, excellent detailed reconnaissance of enemy trucking, supply routs and tank pars was gathered for future use by friendly ground elements. His aerial skill and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 6174 - 5 July 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Richard Bell (MCSN: 0-45307), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy during the Chinese Communist offensive in Korea on 25 May 1941. First Lieutenant Bell, as the leader of a flight of two F-9F's, responded to an urgent call for close air support from friendly ground forces in the vicinity of the town of Hupyong-ni. The advance of a United Nations force had been stalled by the concentrated fire of an enemy battery upon the main corridor of attack. First Lieutenant Bell, without regard for his own personal safety, attacked the heavily defended enemy positions without hesitation. Despite intense enemy automatic weapons fire, he skillfully executed a series of bombing and strafing runs which completely neutralized the anti-aircraft fire and silenced the enemy artillery which had been harassing the friendly ground units. First Lieutenant Bell, by his skillful airmanship, contributed materially to the successful advance of the friendly ground forces. His courageous leadership, efficient action, and fearless devotion to duty were exemplary and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
Serial No. 16350 - 6 December 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Lawrence W. Bender (MCSN: 0-29988), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 12 June 1952. As a member of a four plane flight on an armed reconnaissance mission, Captain Bender attacked camouflaged troop positions near the town of Kujong-ni, scored a direct hit with his napalm bomb and inflicted numerous casualties upon the enemy. Continuing further on the mission, the flight was directed to attack two villages containing enemy supplies and gun positions. Despite intense anti-aircraft fire, Captain Bender carried his attacks through to completion and with unerring accuracy scored direct hits that damaged the installations severely. At a third village Captain Bender attacked enemy installations and with his remaining bombs caused a large secondary explosion and destroyed several buildings. Captain Bender's outstanding marksmanship in the face of enemy fire and steadfast devotion to duty contributed greatly to the success of the mission and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial No. 49 - 13 January 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Roland M. Bendel (NSN: 498039), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in the Korean Theater during the period 5 August to 17 October 1950. As a Pilot of a Corsair Fighter Plane, he participated in thirty-five strike missions over enemy territory.
General Orders: Commander Naval Forces Far East
Serial 10906 (November 6, 1951)
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Machinist's Mate First Class Dewey Eugene Bennett (NSN: 3004268), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as member of a Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron Forty-Two (VP-42). Participating in numerous missions against hostile North Korean Forces during the period 21 August 1950 to 2 February 1951, he added greatly to the success of his squadron. His courage, skill, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Completed Thirty-Five missions)
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 17763 - 12 November 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Staff Sergeant William D. Bennettson (MCSN: 1207781), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine All-Weather Fighter Squadron in Korea. On 11 June 1953, Staff Sergeant Bennettson served as radar operator for a Marine jet night fighter escorting a pre-dawn flight of medium bombers on a high priority aerial assault against heavily defended military installations deep in enemy territory. Constantly on his radar screen he immediately directed the interception of hostile jet fighters, causing them to break of the attack. Staff Sergeant Bennettson's technical ability and exact navigation on this and many other night escort flights were responsible for repelling numerous attacks by hostile fighters and enabled the bombing aircraft to complete their missions unmolested. His courageous conduct, exemplary initiative and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Order: Serial No. 17439 - 24 December 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel Graham H. Benson (MCSN: 0-5308), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in operations against the enemy in Korea on 15 June 1952. Lieutenant Colonel Benson as a member of a flight of four attack aircraft, participated in a close air support mission near Sachon-ni. On his first run over the target, Lieutenant Colonel Benson collapsed a large bunker with a direct hit of a heavy bomb. Spotting another bunker, he completely destroyed it in a subsequent attack with his second bomb. Despite the intense small arms and automatic weapons fire that met these attacks, he then returned to the target to make repeated strafing runs in which he expended his remaining ordnance against nearby shelters, and supply stacks. Lieutenant Colonel Benson's superior airmanship and exceptional bombing accuracy contributed greatly to the success of the mission. His courageous devotion to duty in the face of the enemy was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 8597 - 31 May 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel Graham H. Benson (MCSN: 0-5308), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea. On 11 July 1952, Lieutenant Colonel Benson led a massed flight of Marine attack aircraft in a bombing assault on concentrated batteries of anti-aircraft artillery surrounding the enemy capitol of Pyongyang. Diving across the heavily defended industrial area of the city, Lieutenant Colonel Benson led a bold attack through a screen of intense fire and, with his own bombs, destroyed two heavy anti-aircraft positions and sixteen automatic weapons. Lieutenant Colonel Benson's brilliant and daring leadership and expert dive bombing were primarily responsible for the success of a mission that inflicted severe losses upon the enemy and neutralized much of the defensive fire protecting the key enemy stronghold. His courageous actions and unswerving devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 14949 - 16 September 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Joseph F. Benson (MCSN: 0-33833), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine jet photographic squadron in Korea. On 26 May 1953, as pilot of an unarmed Marine jet photographic aircraft, Captain Benson conducted a high priority aerial reconnaissance mission deep in enemy territory to obtain photographic vitally needed by the United Nations Air Command of the area between the Yalu and Chong-chon Rivers. In order to achieve the element of surprise necessary to the successful accomplishment of his mission, Captain Benson proceeded without benefit of armament or fighter escort into an area known to be defended by enemy jet interceptors and concentrated anti-aircraft batteries. Displaying superb airmanship, he skillfully maneuvered his aircraft at minimum altitude through intense and accurate barrages of hostile anti-aircraft fire to obtain the photographic coverage requested. With complete disregard for his own safety, he remained at low level and pressed his mission to completion despite the fact that he sighted a flight of enemy jet fighters in the area. Captain Benson's heroic actions and exemplary initiative were responsible for the success of a mission that obtained vitally needed photographs far in excess of that normally expected under the flight conditions encountered. His courageous conduct, outstanding professional ability and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 9447 - 13 June 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Richard W. Benton (MCSN: 0-37366), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Attack Squadron in Korea. On 25 November 1952, Captain Benton was the leader of a section of attack aircraft flying air cover over mine sweeping operations on the West Coast of Korea. During this operation, he was requested to neutralize enemy positions near Kumsan-ni. Captain Benton located the positions and in the face of hostile anti-aircraft fire initiated a bombing run, successfully neutralizing the area. Leaving the area, Captain Benton's section conducted a reconnaissance for targets of opportunity. Locating a road repair crew, with nearby stacks of supplies defended by enemy troops, he successfully destroyed the supplies and inflicted heavy enemy casualties. In addition, he directed his wingman to bomb an enemy truck which was then damaged by the wingman's attack. Retiring from the target, Captain Benton located and bombed a concrete block house starting a fire therein. His location of several important enemy targets, upon which he skillfully expended the ordnance of his flight, caused heavy damage to the enemy. His exceptional leadership, courageous conduct and devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 10318 - 27 June 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Wilbur John Berg (MCSN: 0-36005), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Attack Squadron in Korea. On 25 April 1953, Captain Berg led a division of Marine attack aircraft on a close air support mission against heavily defended and well entrenched enemy positions that had been inflicting damage on front line units of United Nations ground forces. Despite restricted visibility caused by adverse weather, Captain Berg promptly located the target and instructed his flight to orbit at a safe altitude while he descended into the precipitous terrain to mark the obscure objective. Diving to minimum altitude through an intense barrage of hostile anti-aircraft fire, he scored direct bomb hits that clearly defined the enemy stronghold. Captain Berg's exceptional bombing accuracy and exemplary leadership were largely responsible for the success of a mission that inflicted heavy enemy casualties and substantially reduced pressure on friendly troops. His courageous conduct, outstanding initiative and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 7853 - 2 June 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain James Hallard Berge, Jr. (MCSN: 0-33436), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 13 February 1952. Captain Berge, as leader of an eight plane flight, took off on a pre-briefed close air support mission as directed by the Joint Operations Center. Contact was made with the airborne controller and the flight was directed to attack enemy troops and trucks in revetments surrounded by enemy automatic weapons positions in the vicinity of T'osan. Due to the close proximity of the friendly lines, Captain Berge made several reconnaissance runs to determine the position of friendly and enemy troops, and to determine the best possible direction from which to make the attack. Captain Berge then initiated a series of expertly executed bombing and strafing attacks. In the face of intense small arms and automatic weapons fire, and without regard for his own personal safety, he continued making low level strafing attacks until he was forced to return to base due to lack of ammunition and low fuel supply. By his inspiring and skillful leadership, in the final assessment accounted for fifteen trucks destroyed and five damaged. Captain Berge's courageous leadership, efficient action and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Lieutenant Commander Leroy F. Berkebile is awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as Pilot of a Jet Fighter Plane attached to Fighter Squadron Ninety-Two, based on board U.S.S. Valley Forge, during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 14 March 1953. While flying as strike leader and coordinator of a flight of twenty-two jet fighter and attack planes on a strike against an important and heavily defended enemy supply area near Ham-hung, Lieutenant Commander Berekebile led the flight directly to the target area and, deploying his aircraft with expert timing, permitted the fighter planes to take under fire all known hostile anti-aircraft positions at the precise moment that the main attack was made on the primary target. Following this initial and successful attack, he led and coordinated repeated strikes on other targets in the area, personally scoring direct bomb hits on enemy supply buildings. Through his skillful direction of flak suppression, no aircraft losses were sustained in an area well known for intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire. When the attacks were completed, he led an unarmed photographic plane in a final low sweep to obtain the complete photographic coverage required for accurate damage assessment, which revealed forty-two buildings destroyed and heavy damage to numerous other enemy installations. By his brilliant airmanship, courage and steadfast devotion to duty, Lieutenant Commander Berkebile contributed materially to the success of vital operations against the enemy and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 11495 - 16 July 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Carol Bernard (MCSN: 0-12727), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Fighter Squadron in Korea. On 4 April 1953, Major Bernard led a division of Marine jet fighter-bombers on a high priority close air support mission against heavily defended enemy automatic weapons and mortar batteries that had been inflicting serious damage on front line units of the First Marine Division. As the flights approached the target area a low cloud ceiling so reduced forward visibility that Major Bernard instructed his Division to orbit out of range of hostile anti-aircraft fire while he definitely marked the obscure objective. Despite an intense barrage of hostile fire, he skillfully maneuvered his aircraft through the precipitous terrain at minimum altitude and located the enemy batteries in extreme proximity to friendly troops. Immediately conducting a daring low-level bombing assault, he destroyed two automatic weapons positions that clearly marked the objective for the remainder of the flight. He then rejoined the orbiting aircraft and led the division in repeated bombing and strafing attacks against the now clearly defined target, again personally scoring direct bomb hits. Major Bernard's own bombing accuracy and exemplary leadership were directly responsible for the success of a mission that inflicted heavy enemy casualties and substantially reduced pressure on advancing elements of the United Nations ground forces. His courageous conduct, outstanding initiative, and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial Nos. 49 - 13 January 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Eugene A. Bernard (NSN: 0-506693), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving with Fighter Squadron One Hundred Fourteen (VF-114), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 5 August to 17 October 1950. As pilot of a Corsair Fighter Plane, he participated in 35 strike missions over enemy territory.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 1637 - 15 January 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain William E. Bernhardt (MCSN: 0-48549), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving with a Marine Observation Squadron from 30 June to 3 October 1952. Serving as a pilot of a slow, unarmed aircraft, Captain Bernhardt displayed outstanding ability and professional skill while completing 83 flights, totaling 158 hours, over enemy territory, at dangerously low altitudes. On one occasion, he disregarded his personal safety and continued to fly in an area of intense enemy anti-aircraft fire in an effort to enable his observer to direct and control an air strike. As a result of his actions heavy enemy casualties, both dead and wounded, were inflicted by the air strike, materially reducing their fighting efficiency. Captain Bernhardt's alertness, efficient actions and outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 541 (March 6, 1952)
General Orders
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander Felix F. Bertagna (NSN: 0-122117), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as a pilot of an attack bomber, attached to Composite Squadron Thirty-Five (VC-35), serving with Fighter Squadron Fifty-Four (VF-54), on board U.S.S. Essex (CV-9), in action against hostile North Korean and Chinese forces. On 18 October 1951, Lieutenant Commander Bertagna was engaged in a pre-dawn heckler strike against enemy installations. In the complete darkness of the early morning, he made repeated low-level bombing attacks, scoring several direct hits upon truck convoys moving along a major supply route west of Wonsan. At dawn, he spotted a moving train in the vicinity of Yongchung, heavily laden with enemy supplies. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he fearlessly dove through withering and accurate anti-aircraft fire and scored a direct hit upon the locomotive, which resulted in its derailment an rendered the entire train immobile. He persevered in his attack against the train and expended his entire load of strafing ammunition against the boxcars. His superb airmanship, coupled with his gallant devotion to duty, accounted for severe and costly damage being inflicted upon the enemy, and reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 15594 - 29 September 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel John B. Berteling (MCSN: 0-9007), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as Commanding Officer of a carrier-based Marine Attack Squadron in Korea. On 14 July 1953, Lieutenant Colonel Berteling received a high priority request from friendly front line units to supply all available aircraft for a close air support mission against a major enemy troop concentration near Kumsong, North Korea. Despite extremely rough seas, heavy precipitation and overcast conditions that would normally preclude combat flight operations from an aircraft carrier, Lieutenant Colonel Berteling elected to provide the air support. Although winds of over fifty miles per hour swept the carrier's deck, he safely led his division into the air, through the instrument weather and directly to the target area. Over the objective the adverse weather prevented dive bombing attacks and he was compelled to conduct his bombing runs by radar. Displaying exceptional professional ability, he scored direct bomb hits that inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy. After directing his flight in a highly successful bombing assault he safely led the division back to the carrier. Lieutenant Colonel Berteling's outstanding accuracy and exemplary leadership were responsible for the success of a mission that disrupted and repulsed one of the largest enemy offensives in over two years, thereby substantially reducing pressure on front line units of the United Nations ground forces. His courageous conduct, exceptional leadership and aerial skill reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander, Naval Forces Far East
General Orders: Serial No. 1311 - 15 February 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Byron H. Beswick (MCSN: 0-29003), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the North Korean forces on 3 September 1950, during the defense of the perimeter along the Naktong River. Captain Beswick led his section on repeated rocket and strafing runs on enemy troops along levees, in buildings, and in rice paddies, which were holding up the advance of friendly troops west of Yongsan. Captain Beswick's section was required to make extremely low strafing runs in the face of intense small arms and anti-aircraft fire in order to observe their targets. He obtained four direct hits with five inch rockets on a large warehouse serving as a fuel storage dump, completely destroying it together with a number of adjacent buildings. As a result of the attacks, at least one hundred fifty enemy troops were killed and the survivors were forced to retreat from the area in a disorganized manner. His outstanding airmanship and aggressive actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Third Gold Star in lieu of a Fourth Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Byron H. Beswick (MCSN: 0-29003), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a pilot attached to Marine Fighting Squadron Three Hundred Twenty-Three (VMF-323), based aboard the U.S.S. Badoeng Strait (CVE-116), from 3 September 1950 to 9 November 1950. During this period of time Captain Beswick completed his first through thirty-fifth missions in close support of ground forces, destroying and inflicting great damage to concentrations of North Korean vehicles, material, and personnel, thereby contributing effectively to the defense of South Korea. By his airmanship and devotion to duty in the face of enemy anti-aircraft fire he contributed materially to the success of his squadron. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Fourth Gold Star in lieu of a Fifth Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Byron H. Beswick (MCSN: 0-29003), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy during the attack on enemy vehicles and supplies at the town of Hoeyang, Korea, on 20 April 1951. Captain Beswick organized, planned, and led his strike under extremely adverse weather conditions which included letting down through an overcast to the target over hazardous mountain terrain, and exposing himself to possible enemy anti-aircraft fire under the low ceiling. Captain Beswick, without regard for his own safety, led extremely low level strafing and level bombing attacks, necessitated by the low ceiling. Concussion from their bomb drops jarred their planes as they made their runs. An estimated fifteen trucks were destroyed and ten damaged. Several trucks loaded with inflammables were seen to explode. Before retiring from the target, when he had expended all of his ammunition, Captain Beswick called the succeeding flight, and directed them into the target area, where they found and destroyed nineteen more vehicles. His aggressive leadership, efficient action and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Warren W. Bestwick (MCSN: 0-33743), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 16 July 1952. Captain Bestwick, leading a flight of two attack aircraft, was directed to attack Ung-do Island where a large number of enemy troops were concentrated. After making several low-level reconnaissance runs to locate accurately the enemy positions, he initiated bombing and strafing attacks against them through heavy defensive fire. Captain Bestwick scored a direct bomb hit on one large troop-filled bunker. In his initial attack and in succeeding attacks he and his wingman destroyed two bunkers, damaged four additional bunkers and inflicted numerous casualties upon the enemy. Captain Bestwick's skillful leadership and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders No. 14621 - 11 September 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Major Grover Rombeau Betzer (MCSN: 0-13728), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a carrier-based Marine Attack Squadron in Korea. On 24 February 1953, Major Betzer participated in the rescue of a downed Marine aviator who had crash-landed his stricken aircraft on the ice of a frozen reservoir deep in hostile territory, and was surrounded by enemy troops. With complete disregard for his own safety, Major Betzer conducted a series of daring minimum altitude strafing assaults, intentionally drawing the heavy hostile fire away from the downed pilot. Displaying superb airmanship, he skillfully maneuvered his aircraft at low level, through intense and accurate barrages of hostile fire, and succeeded on several occasions in completely suppressing all ground fire directed at the downed aviator. Ignoring the increasingly accurate fire that was bursting all around his aircraft, Major Betzer repeatedly strafed the enemy positions and when his guns ceased to function, he continued to press simulated strafing runs with such effectiveness that a helicopter was able to effect a successful rescue. Remaining at the scene, Major Betzer succeeded in sinking the downed aircraft into the reservoir with direct rocket hits, to prevent it from falling into enemy hands. His courageous conduct, superb airmanship and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 6927 - 28 July 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Warren J. Beyes (MCSN: 0-37321), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a pilot attached to a Marine All-Weather Fighter Squadron, from 1 September 1950 to 9 December 1950. First Lieutenant Beyes successfully completed his first through thirty-fifth combat mission against the enemy over Korea, where enemy fire was either received or expected. Most of these flights were at night in extremely adverse weather conditions and mountainous terrain. By his skillful airmanship, he inflicted great damage on concentrations of enemy vehicles, material and personnel. First Lieutenant Beyes' conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial No. 456 - 22 March 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Rocco D. Bianchi (MCSN: 0-37254), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in the Korean Theater during the period from 1 October 1950 to 7 January 1951. As Pilot of a fighter plane, he participated in thirty-five strike missions over hostile territory.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
Serial No. 3865 - 3 September 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Joe R. Bibby (MCSN: 0-46961), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flights as a pilot attached to Marine Fighter Squadron Two Hundred Fourteen (VMF-214), from 23 October 1950 through 1 January 1951. First Lieutenant Bibby successfully completed his 1st through 35th combat mission in support of our ground forces, destroying and inflicting great damage to concentrations of North Korean vehicles, material, and personnel. By his airmanship and devotion to duty in the face of enemy anti-aircraft fire, he contributed materially to the success of our troops. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 5006 - 31 March 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Albert J. Bibee (MCSN: 0-27111), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy with a Marine Attack Squadron in Korea. On 14 July 1952, Major Bibee engaged in an aerial assault against a heavily defended and carefully camouflaged concentration of enemy personnel and supply shelters. As he initiated his second bombing attack through intense and accurate defensive fire, his plane was struck and damaged by an explosive enemy projectile. With complete disregard for his own safety he resolutely pressed the attack, scoring direct hits with his bombs on the enemy positions. Maneuvering with skill and precision despite the damage to his aircraft and increasingly heavy anti-aircraft fire, he returned to make repeated accurate assaults on the enemy objective. Major Bibee's heroic actions in continuing his attacks contributed substantially to the success of a mission that demolished ten enemy personnel shelters and 12 supply stacks, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 8837 - 4 June 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain William Biehl, Jr. (MCSN: 0-25343), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Attack Squadron in Korea. On 5 April 1952, Captain Biehl led a flight of Marine attack aircraft against a series of heavily defended enemy bunkers which threatened the security of United Nations front line forces. Despite mountainous terrain, Captain Biehl promptly located the cleverly camouflaged positions and initiated an attack through intense hostile fire. After scoring direct hits with his own bombs, he directed the rest of his flight so skillfully that eleven bunkers were destroyed and heavy casualties inflicted upon enemy personnel. Captain Biehl's bombing accuracy and exemplary leadership were largely responsible for the success of a mission that substantially reduced pressure on friendly front line units, and his actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander 7th Fleet
Serial 1600 - October 17, 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Ensign Thomas Clarence Biesterveld (NSN: 0-7802485), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Section Leader of a flight of fighter aircraft Fighter Squadron One Hundred Ninety-Three (VF-193), attached to U.S.S. Princeton (CV-37), while on an interdiction mission near the Chosin Reservoir, while upholding the policies of the United Nations Security Council on 4 February 1951. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Ensign Biesterveld made repeated bombing and flak suppression attacks in the face of heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire. Making several slashing attacks between two heavily defended ridges, he led his section in scoring a direct hot on this vital highway bridge, thus effectively stopping all southbound enemy vehicular traffic. His courage and gallant devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: All Hands - 9/1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Electronicsman Second Class Harlan Wayne Bigler (NSN: 8709014), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as member of a Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron FORTY-TWO (VP-42). Participating in thirty-six missions against enemy forces during the period 20 August 1950 to 2 February 1951, in areas where enemy aircraft and anti-aircraft fire could be expected, he contributed materially to the success of his squadron. His skill, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: All Hands - 9/1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade [then Ensign] William H. Birk, United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as member of a Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron Forty-Two (VP-42). Participating in numerous missions against hostile North Korean Forces during the period 20 August 1950 to 2 February 1951, he added greatly to the success of his squadron. His courage, skill, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Completed Thirty-Five missions)
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 5781 - 9 May 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Second Lieutenant Darrell E. Bjorklund (MCSN: 0-51301), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 27 November 1951. Second Lieutenant Bjorklund as a member of a four plane flight of fighter-bombers took of on a pre-briefed road reconnaissance mission as directed by the Joint Operations Center. In the vicinity of Natan-ni a column of enemy troops was observed marching in the direction of the village. Without hesitation Second Lieutenant Bjorklund followed the flight leader in the attack and strafed the troops before they could disperse for defense. On the second run by enemy anti-aircraft gunners situated nearby commenced a heavy concentration of automatic weapons fire which was directed at the flight, but undeterred by this obvious danger, Second Lieutenant Bjorklund repeatedly dove through the barrage to neutralize the enemy. He relentlessly pursued the enemy until darkness and lack of ammunition forced him to join his flight and return to base. His superb skill and efficient action contributed materially to the success of the mission, which in the final assessment, accounted for one hundred enemy dead and numerous wounded. Second Lieutenant Bjorklund's fearless devotion to duty and exceptional courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, 5th Air Force
General Orders No. 347 - June 10, 1952
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Reece Baker Black (AFSN: 0-41040), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a B-26 attack bomber on the night of 28 January 1952. Weather conditions were unusually unfavorable for the performance of the assigned mission which was the interdiction of the enemy supply system. A very low broken cloud cover frequently obscured the target and thick haze severely restricted visibility. Despite this impediment, Captain Black sighted, through a break in the clouds, a large enemy convoy. Diving to the attack in a narrow valley, surrounded by rugged terrain, Captain Black made repeated low-level bombing and strafing attacks until eleven of the supply-laden vehicles were destroyed. This highly successful mission, performed in spite of very unfavorable weather and in the face of dangerous terrain conditions dealt a heavy blow to the enemy transport system. By his high courage and skill, Captain Black has brought great credit to himself, his organization and the United States Air Force.
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant William Charles Blackford, Jr. (NSN: 0-453727), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as section leader in a flight of eight Corsairs on a strike against the Communist-held airfield of Hoemum, North Korea, on 12 June 1953. Lieutenant Blackford was called upon to take charge of the entire flight because of mechanical failure of the strike leader's aircraft. Lieutenant Blackford's prompt assumption of command, and his competent conduct of the entire flight, resulted in the complete success of the mission assigned. The outstanding leadership and professional skill exhibited by Lieutenant Blackford resulted in rendering the airfield completely non-operational. The attacks were so effectively coordinated that nine direct hits, four by one thousand pound bombs, were spaced over the complete length and width of the runway. Lieutenant Blackford scored three direct, well placed, hits on the runway with his own bombs. Following the completion of the attacks on the airfield, Lieutenant Blackford further demonstrated his high capacity for leadership by directing his flight in attacks on nearby rail and highway bridges used as supply arteries for the airfield and adjacent areas. These further attacks resulted in the destruction of one bridge and damaging of another. Lieutenant Blackford led the attacks and retirement of his flight in such a manner that there was no damage inflicted by enemy anti-aircraft fire on any of the flight. The skill and daring exhibited by Lieutenant Blackford, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, led to the completed success of the mission assigned and materially aided the United Nations Forces in their defense against the enemy. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander, 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial No. 1071 - 17 November 1950
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign David A. Blalock (NSN: 0-506142), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in the Korean Theater during the period 3 July to 25 September 1950. As a Pilot of an attack bomber in Attack Squadron Fifty-Five (VA-55), Ensign Blalock participated in thirty-five strike missions over enemy territory.
Headquarters, 5th Air Force
General Orders No. 731 - 10 December 1952
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Air Force Award) to Captain Kenneth R. Bland (MCSN: 0-39827), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight on 9 October 1952 as a pilot, 15th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, Fifth Air Force. While flying an RF-80 aircraft on a reconnaissance mission above the Chong Chon River, Captain Bland experienced severe vibration throughout his aircraft and loss of power due to the failure of several turbine blades in the engine. Although nine enemy fighter formations were in his immediate area Captain Bland succeeded in flying his disabled aircraft down the western coast of Korea without interception. While fifty miles from Kimpo Air Base, Captain Bland received indications of excessive oil pressure, fire in the engine section, and loss of power to thirty-five per cent of rated output. Captain Bland then utilized outstanding airmanship to glide the remaining distance and execute a successful dead-stick approach and landing at Kimpo. By the skill and cool judgment he displayed under extreme stress on this occasion, Captain Bland prevented the loss of a valuable aircraft and brought great credit upon himself, the United States Air Force, and the Fleet Marine Force.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 14560 - 10 September 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Clive Blaney (MCSN: 0-32239), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving with a Marine Fighter Squadron in Korea. On 16 April 1953, Captain Blaney was a member of a division of fighter bombers on a close air support mission in direct support of the First Marine Division. When the flight leader was forced to return to his base because of mechanical difficulty, Captain Blaney unhesitatingly assumed the lead despite the fact that the flight was diverted from its pre-briefed mission to a completely unfamiliar target that was then exerting heavy pressure on elements of the FIRST Marine Division. Promptly locating the well-camouflaged heavy weapons and mortar positions, located in hazardous terrain, Captain Blaney courageously led a daring attack through intense anti-aircraft and small arms fire and pinpointed the target with a direct bomb hit on the heavy weapons position. Exercising extreme caution because of the close proximity of friendly troops, Captain Blaney displayed aggressive leadership to direct the flight in repeated bombing and strafing runs on the enemy emplacement. His outstanding bombing accuracy and exemplary leadership in organizing and directing his flight, were largely responsible for the success of a mission that substantially reduced hostile pressure on friendly front line forces. His courageous conduct, superb airmanship and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 14713 - 31 October 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Lytton F. Blass (MCSN: 0-22379/271009), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea. On 24 April 1952, Captain Blass was the pilot of an unarmed photographic reconnaissance aircraft assigned the mission of photographing enemy airfields, bridges and railroad facilities in the Kunuri and Sinanju area. En route to the target and without prior warning, he was intercepted by eight enemy MiG type aircraft. Greatly outnumbered and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Captain Blass skillfully maneuvered his unarmed aircraft in such a manner as to force the enemy aircraft to discontinue the attack. Knowing enemy aircraft were still in the vicinity, Captain Blass returned to the target area. Forced to maintain a constant vigilance, and with the successful completion of his mission as his primary objective, Captain Blass refused to leave the area until the targets were completely photographed. As a result of Captain Blass' courageous and determined action, full photographic coverage of the assigned enemy forces in planning future action against the enemy. Captain Blass' outstanding airmanship, determined spirit and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 3709 - 25 April 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Wallace D. Blatt (MCSN: 0-23261), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flights, as a pilot attached to the First Marine Aircraft Wing, from 22 October 1950 through 9 November 1950. Captain Blatt successfully completed his first through thirty-fifth combat mission against the enemy over Korea, where enemy fire was either received or expected. These missions were flown in a slow, unarmed, observation aircraft; and were instrumental in locating enemy strong points, and spotting for our artillery. His actions throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 3706 - 25 April 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Wallace D. Blatt (MCSN: 0-23261), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flights, as a pilot attached to the First Marine Air Wing, from 9 November 1950 through 5 December 1950. Captain Blatt successfully completed his thirty-sixth through seventieth combat mission against the enemy over Korea, where enemy fire was either received or expected. These missions were flown in a slow, unarmed, observation aircraft; and were instrumental in locating enemy strong points, and spotting for our artillery. His actions throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial No. 989 - 31 October 1950
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Second Lieutenant Aquilla M. Blaydes (MCSN: 0-27429), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in the Korean theater during the period 20 September to 28 September 1950. As a pilot of a fighter plane Second Lieutenant Blaydes participated in thirty-five strike missions over enemy territory.
Headquarters, Commander Naval Forces Far East
General Orders: Serial No. 1311 - 15 February 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Second Lieutenant Aquilla M. Blaydes (MCSN: 0-27429), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in action against North Korean forces on 6 and 7 September 1950, while flying as a section leader of Marine Fighter Squadron Three Hundred Twenty-Three (VMF-323), on interdiction strikes deep in enemy territory. On 6 September 1950, Second Lieutenant Blaydes pressed home a dive bombing attack in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire on the main rail road bridge located at Koensong, and delivered a direct hit on his pin-point target. On the following day, 7 September 1950, Lieutenant Blaydes was a member of a flight assigned to bomb a rail bridge at a point south of Inchon. Although faced with intense and deadly anti-aircraft fire protecting the bridge, Lieutenant Blaydes drove home his attack with deadly accuracy and secured another direct hit, causing three of the bridge spans to fall into the water and making the bridge and rail supply line from Inchon and Suwon unserviceable. His outstanding achievement and skillful airmanship were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 2871 - 6 April 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Staff Sergeant Robert E. Block (MCSN: 621723), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an Airborne Intercept Operator attached to a Marine All-Weather Fighter Squadron from 20 September to 6 December 1950. Staff Sergeant Block successfully completed his first to thirty-fifth combat mission against the enemy in Korea. Most of these flights were at night, deep into enemy territory, and anti-aircraft fire was either received or expected. His actions greatly hampered the movement of enemy vehicular traffic to the front lines. Staff Sergeant Block's outstanding knowledge of radar navigation and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 4152 - 4 April 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Donald M. Bloomer (MCSN: 0-39304), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight during the Korean Conflict from 22 January 1951 to 28 February 1952. Captain Bloomer, while serving as a Pilot attached to the Forward Echelon of Marine Transport Squadron One Hundred Fifty-Two (VMR-152), completed numerous support missions in heavily loaded aircraft. These flights were carried out under unusually hazardous conditions, including extremely adverse weather with heavy icing and turbulence, inadequate aids to navigation including unreliable homer facilities, hazardous mountain terrain, dangerous runways of the advanced airstrips on many occasions covered with mud or ice and snow and over guerrilla infested territory where aircraft had been fired upon and hit. Many of these flights were made into airstrips in extreme forward areas where no aids to navigation or crash facilities existed. The heavy and unbalanced loads of cargo and the adverse weather encountered in these flights required the utmost skill and flight planning and execution, which Captain Bloomer accomplished with confidence and skill. As a result of these flights desperately needed ammunition and other supplies reached front line units and the critically wounded of the United Nations forces were flown safely to hospitals in Japan. Captain Bloomer's alertness, efficient actions and devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General, 1st Marine Division
General Orders: Serial No. 16230 - 16 May 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Robert E. Blount (MCSN: 0-38146), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea while serving with the First Marine Division (Reinforced), on 27 January 1953. Serving as a pilot, Captain Blount displayed exceptional courage, professional skill and devotion to duty. During an extremely dangerous flight over hostile terrain, he fearlessly maneuvered his unarmed aircraft in such a manner that his observer was able to direct a highly successful air strike against enemy positions and troop concentrations. During the operation one of the striking aircraft was partially disabled. Captain Blount immediately guided the damaged plane to a nearby landing strip for a safe landing and a helicopter was summoned for medical attention to the pilot. As a result of his determined efforts, he was instrumental in the destruction of five enemy caves, one supply dump and approximately one hundred yards of trench line. Captain Blount's alertness, efficient actions and outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel Donald D. Blue (MCSN: 0-8593), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against enemy aggressor forces in Korea. Lieutenant Colonel Blue, while serving as a pilot with Marine Attack Squadron One Hundred Twenty-One (VMA-121), First Marine Aircraft Wing, FMF, on 29 November 1952, led a flight of four attack aircraft on a mission over enemy territory, destroying a heavily entrenched, well camouflaged enemy strong point containing automatic weapons which were harassing ground units of the First Marine Division with accurate and deadly fire. Lieutenant Colonel Blue instructed the members of his flight to remain over friendly lines while he personally searched out the target. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he flew at a low altitude through intense 20-mm. and small arms fire and located the skillfully camouflaged positions. Rejoining his flight, he expertly maneuvered his plane to make the first attack on the target through the intense flak, scoring a direct hit, which effectively marked the target for the other members of his flight. As a direct result of Lieutenant Colonel Blue's superb airmanship, the enemy gun positions were completely destroyed and the fire on the Division units was promptly lifted. His alertness, prompt and well planned actions, and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Felix E. Blum, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as Pilot of a Fighter Plane attached to Fighter Squadron One Hundred Fifty One, on board the U.S.S. BOXER, during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 24 May 1953. Participating in a night heckler mission over hostile territory, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Blum repeatedly pressed home his attacks on a heavily loaded train with concentrated bombing and 20-mm. fire despite reduced visibility and rugged mountainous terrain. Attacking at low altitudes, which enabled the enemy to direct intense anti-aircraft fire upon his aircraft, he personally destroyed three boxcars, damaged the locomotive and two other boxcars, and caused one large secondary explosion and one rail cut. By his skilled airmanship, marked courage and zealous devotion to duty, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Blum contributed materially to the success of the assigned mission and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 4505 - 18 May 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Third Gold Star in lieu of a Fourth Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Arthur Raymond Boag (MCSN: 0-11850), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy during the amphibious landing of South Korean Troops north of P'ohang, on 15 September 1950. Major Boag, while serving as a pilot attached to a Marine All-Weather Fighter Squadron, in an effort to make possible the amphibious landing in enemy territory and at great personal danger, remained over the area during intense enemy anti-aircraft and small arms fire and led his flight in repeated attacks on enemy positions, delivering devastating fire. He continued to make low attacks over the enemy even after all of his ammunition was expended. Major Boag persisted in his efforts to prevent enemy troops from inflicting damage on the South Korean troops by obtaining the maximum endurance out of his aircraft and in so doing destroyed a number of enemy anti-aircraft and mortar positions, as well as a large number of enemy troops. His alertness, efficient actions and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General, 1st Marine Division
General Orders: Serial No. 26815 - 8 September 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Lewis E. Bobbitt, Jr. (MCSN: 0-48445), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 4 June 1952. While attached to a Marine Observation Squadron as a pilot, First Lieutenant Bobbitt was flying a slow, unarmed observation type aircraft on an artillery spotting mission behind the enemy lines when his observer spotted considerable troop activity around a reported bivouac and supply area. Although the target was in an area where anti-aircraft fire could be constantly expected, First Lieutenant Bobbitt unhesitatingly began to orbit the indicated area, giving the observer maximum observation of the target and ensuring rapid adjustment on the target with artillery fire. During the accomplishment of this mission his aircraft was subjected to anti-aircraft and automatic weapons fire. He skillfully maneuvered his plane, keeping the primary target under observation while locating the source of anti-aircraft fire. The observer was then able to adjust artillery fire on the anti-aircraft position. First Lieutenant Bobbitt remained over the area until the fire mission was complete, returning to base long after dark and his estimated time of return. His devotion to duty contributed to the infliction of numerous casualties and material damage on the enemy. First Lieutenant Bobbitt's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 56 - 19 June 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain James Dean Boldman (MCSN: 0-24141), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving as a Pilot attached to a Marine Fighter Squadron. On 5 April 1951, Captain Boldman answered an urgent call for volunteers to make a hazardous combat strike in close support of Marine ground forces who were seriously threatened by a strong enemy force occupying an advantageous position in the path of their advance. Captain Boldman was well aware that it would be necessary to lead his flight through bad weather at low altitude over two hundred miles of rugged terrain in order to reach the objective area. Despite extremely low visibility and heavy anti-aircraft fire, Captain Boldman, with a high degree of courage and skill, pressed through to the objective and attacked the enemy positions. While in the initial attack, one member of the four plane flight received a direct hit from one of the large caliber anti-aircraft guns protecting the enemy positions, causing that pilot to crash to his death. Despite this loss, Captain Boldman, at grave risk to his own life, continued to make accurate and effective napalm, rocket and strafing attacks on the enemy positions. The area was neutralized and was subsequently captured by our Marine ground forces. Captain Boldman's skillful flying and his fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in addition to a previously awarded Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross (Air Force Award) to Major John Franklin Bolt, Jr. (MCSN: 0-13522), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while flying with the 39th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, Fifth Air Force, in aerial combat against the enemy in Korea on 16 May 1953. Major Bold was flying the number three position in a flight of six F-86 Sabre Jets on a Yalu River patrol when he sighted twelve enemy MiG-15s. In order to provide protection for his wingman, hw was lagging behind, Major Bolt slowed his aircraft, disregarding the increased vulnerability of his own plane to enemy attack. Through superior airmanship, he then maneuvered his two plane attacking force into firing position on the enemy flight. Although forced into the defensive several times by the numerically superior enemy aircraft, Major Bolt tenaciously pursued one of the MiG-15s, and by repeatedly firing damaging bursts into the engine section, he forced the enemy pilot to bail out. In this encounter, Major Bolt displayed the courage, ability and tenacity of purpose that has constantly distinguished his tour of duty with the 39th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, and through these efforts he has reflected great credit upon himself, the United States Marine Corps and the United States Air Force.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 145 - 22 February 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Willard R. Bolton (MCSN: 0-39400), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the armed enemy in Korea on 8 January 1952. Captain Bolton, as pilot of a slow, unarmed, evacuation type helicopter, volunteered to perform a night evacuation mission to the Kangok area on the front lines. Although his aircraft was not equipped with night flying instruments, Captain Bolton, without regard for his own personal safety, flew through the darkness over rugged mountainous terrain. While high winds made his craft almost uncontrollable and although he was deprived of using his landing lights, he succeeded in landing the helicopter in a tiny clearing. He then waited over twenty minutes so that first aid could be rendered the two wounded Marines before evacuating them. During this period, enemy mortar and artillery was bursting dangerously near. With the seriously wounded Marines aboard his aircraft, he flew back through the darkness and completed a highly successful mission. His great personal bravery was an inspiration to all who observed him and aided materially in saving lives which would have been lost without prompt medical care at rear aid facilities. Captain Bolton's efficient actions and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
First Lieutenant Jonita R. Bonham performed meritorious service and distinguished herself while acting as Flight Nurse in medical air evacuation flights totaling one hundred seventy (170) hours from 25 July to 26 September 1950. Lieutenant Bonham flew in unarmed cargo type aircraft. On many occasions these aircraft were operating in and out of advance airfields which were being subjected to enemy fire; transporting ammunition, rockets, bombs and other types of high explosives and inflammable material, under adverse weather conditions and over hazardous terrain. Despite these conditions, Lieutenant Bonham carried out her missions willingly and without complaint, continually comforting and caring for her patients. By her courage, ability and unselfish devotion to duty, Lieutenant Bonham has reflected great credit upon herself, her profession and the United States Air Force.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 13107 - 13 August 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain John D. Bonner (MCSN: 0-38551), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving with a Marine attack squadron in Korea. On 10 January 1953, as a member of a flight of Marine attack aircraft, Captain Bonner engaged in an aerial assault against a heavily defended enemy rail bridge near Anju. As Captain Bonner completed a bombing attack in which he scored direct bomb hits, his aircraft was struck by an explosive enemy projectile. With complete disregard for his own safety, the extensive damage to his aircraft and increasing hostile fire, he resolutely pressed low-level strafing attacks on targets of opportunity. Maneuvering with skill and precision despite the severe damage to his engine, he piloted his faltering aircraft 130 miles to a friendly air base where he executed a successful emergency landing. Captain Bonner's outstanding perseverance and superb airmanship in completing his attack on the enemy contributed substantially to the success of a mission that demolished a vital link in the enemy's transportation system. His courageous conduct, exceptional initiative and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 5832 - 10 May 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain William H. Boodro (MCSN: 0-24854), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 11 January 1952. Captain Boodro, as a section leader in a flight of five AD's, took off on a pre-briefed close air support mission at the request of the Joint Operations Center. The flight reported to HAMMER BAKER 7 control, who was to control and designate targets for this flight. HAMMER BAKER 7 assigned a target consisting of three artillery positions plus accompanying prepared bunkers near the village of Songam-ni. Captain Boodro then led his flight, in the face of extremely heavy and accurate enemy small arms fire, in a series of expertly executed bombing and strafing attacks. Captain Boodro made repeated runs on the gun positions and scored two direct hits with 1,000 pound bombs destroying one artillery piece. The airborne controller credited the flight with two artillery positions destroyed and one severely damaged with seventy-five percent coverage of the target area. Captain Boodro's efficient actions, and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander Naval Forces Far East
General Orders: Serial No. 1815 - 5 March 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Electronicsman First Class George Harvey Booth (NSN: 8262384), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as a Member of a Patrol Plane Crew in Patrol Squadron Forty-Seven (VP-47), during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, from 2 July to 25 December 1950. Completing thirty-six combat missions during this period, he participated in daring strikes against the enemy in the face of imminent hostile anti-aircraft fire and aerial opposition. By his outstanding skill, courage and loyal devotion to duty throughout, he contributed materially to the success of his squadron and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 6970 - 28 July 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Dewey Borellini (MCSN: 0-28678), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy during the Chinese Communist offensive in Korea on 26 June 1951. Captain Borellini, as flight leader of four aircraft on a reconnaissance mission, diverted his flight to a close support target near the town of Kimsong at the urgent request of an airborne controller. Arriving over the target area, he located and identified the enemy positions by making numerous low-level runs over their positions. He also discovered that friendly troops were pinned down by enemy fire received from the hill-top positions. Without regard for his own personal safety, Captain Borellini led repeated attacks against the positions despite intense enemy fire. His skillfully executed bombing and strafing attacks inflicted heavy casualties upon the enemy and completely neutralized the position. Captain Borellini's courageous leadership and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Joseph E. Bores (NSN: 0-522427), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a Navy Corsair Fighter while attached to and serving with Fighter Squadron One Hundred Thirteen (VF-113), embarked in U.S.S. PHILIPPINE SEA (CVA-47), during actions against enemy forces on 13 April 1952. Prior to a coordinated strike by Task Force Seventy-Seven against the hostile industrial and supply center of Chongjin, North Korea, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bores directed naval gunfire against heavily concentrated troop and gun positions in order to reduce the resistance of the area to aerial attack. Although his aircraft was pierced numerous times by intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, he valiantly continued to direct the ship's fire into two large barracks areas effecting the complete destruction of all buildings in both areas. Displaying cool courage and bold combat tactics, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bores initiated repeated bombing and strafing attacks against a warehouse area which was encircled by withering anti-aircraft fire. In his personal attacks he destroyed a large factory, burned two warehouses to the ground, and silenced two gun positions. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bores fought his plane gallantly despite grave personal hazards. His relentless fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 8849 - 23 September 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain William H. Bortz, Jr. (MCSN: 0-32735), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy on 29 May 1951 in Korea. Captain Bortz, while serving as a Pilot with a Marine All-Weather Fighter Squadron, was engaged on a night intruder mission in then Buachon area. Despite the limitations of darkness and haze, he located an enemy vehicle column of about one hundred and fifty trucks, many of them towing artillery pieces. Captain Bortz immediately initiated a series of devastating attacks, aggressively pursuing his runs to hazardously low altitudes to insure the maximum effectiveness of his bombs, rockets and twenty millimeter cannon. Disregarding intense mobile anti-aircraft fire, he persisted in his attacks until his ordnance was expended. As a result of Captain Bortz's efficient actions on this night, the enemy suffered the total destruction of ten trucks with their associated loads, and six damaged. His superb airmanship, aggressive devotion to duty and complete disregard for his personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
Serial No. 3709 - 25 April 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Charles E. Boswell, Jr. (MCSN: 0-31278), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a Pilot attached to a Marine All-Weather Fighter Squadron from 22 September 1950 to 7 December 1950. Captain Boswell successfully completed his first through thirty-fifth combat mission against the enemy in Korea. Most of these flights were at night, deep into enemy territory, and anti-aircraft fire was either received or expected. His actions greatly hampered the movement of enemy vehicular traffic to the front lines. Captain Boswell's skillful airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General, 1st Marine Division
General Orders: Serial No. 7915 - 6 March 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Donald L. Boudreaux (MCSN: 0-37136), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the armed enemy while serving with a Marine Observation Squadron in Korea, on 18 December 1952. Captain Boudreaux, serving as a pilot of an evacuation type helicopter, volunteered to attempt a hazardous night evacuation mission. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he took off in complete darkness and flew over difficult mountainous terrain without proper instruments. Although a previous flight to the same site had crashed as a result of the restricted visibility, he skillfully maneuvered his aircraft to the designated evacuation point and made a successful landing in the snow. He directed the loading of two critically wounded Marines and completed the mission by delivering them to a rear area medical unit for immediate treatment. Captain Boudreaux's alertness, efficient actions and outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 5208 - 26 April 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Arthur R. Bousquet (MCSN: 0-49246), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of Marine Fighter Squadron Three Hundred Twelve (VMF-312), on 14 November 1951, in the vicinity of Mandung-ni, Korea. While flying as section leader on a close support mission, First Lieutenant Bousquet displayed outstanding airmanship as he pressed home his attack. On his first run he detected two enemy gun positions and scored a direct hit on one of them with a napalm bomb. Despite the heavy concentration of enemy fire from small arms and automatic weapons, he made repeated low level napalm and bombing attacks scoring direct hits on the second gun position and three large bunkers. First Lieutenant Bousquet personally accounted for two gun positions and three enemy bunkers destroyed. By his aggressiveness, courage, and fearless devotion to duty he greatly decreased the effectiveness of the enemy force confronting the United Nations troops. His actions throughout the entire engagement were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Airman First Class Franklin W. Bowdoin, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement against an enemy of the United States on the night of 17 November 1952, while serving as engineer on a B-26 attack bomber of the Third Bombardment Wing (Light), Fifth Air Force. While on a night interdiction mission over North Korea, Airman Bowdoin and his crew sighted a convoy of twelve vehicles on the main supply route south of Chinnampo. During the repeated attacks pressed upon these vehicles, Airman Bowdoin demonstrated an unusual degree of coordination with his pilot by monitoring the instruments and altimeter so effectively that the pilot was enabled to concentrate fully on directions given by the bombardier. As a result of the excellent coordination between the engineer and pilot, seven vehicles were destroyed by fire and explosions. Airman Bowdoin 's outstanding use of crew coordination and superior knowledge reflect great credit upon himself, his organization and the United States Air Force.
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Commander Frederick William Bowen (NSN: 0-116326), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a pilot of fighter aircraft attached to Fighter Squadron EIGHT HUNDRED EIGHTY-FOUR (VF-884), aboard the U.S.S. KEARSARGE. As flight leader on 29 September 1952, Lieutenant Commander Bowen, while participating in a strike mission at Tong-chon-ni, a small city in hostile North Korea, did courageously and skillfully direct attacks, in the face of intense automatic and small arms fire, upon an enemy troop and supply area. By direct hits with his bombs he destroyed one anti-aircraft position, two personnel buildings and annihilated an estimated fifty enemy troops. Lieutenant Commander Bowen showed skillful versatility without regard for his own personal safety and displayed the inspiring leadership and steadfast devotion to duty that are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Jarrette D. Bowen, Sr., United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement on an aerial flight over enemy territory on 1 September 1950. Captain Bowen flew alone and unarmed in a jet reconnaissance aircraft on a multiple target photographic mission including the heavily defended Seoul bridges and the Air Fields at Kimpo, Suwon, and Pyongtek. Upon letting down to the assigned altitude of 14,000 feet, Captain Bowen experienced partial power failure and severe vibrations due to a critically damaged turbine wheel. Disregarding the power failure and in spite of enemy ground fire and roving enemy air patrols, Captain Bowen successfully completed his assigned mission before returning to his home base. As a result of his photographs, the United Nations Forces were able to locate key enemy defenses in these areas. Through his technical skill and valorous devotion to duty, Captain Bowen has brought great credit to himself, the United Nations Forces, and the United States Air Force.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 1372 - 26 January 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Marion Boyd Bowers (MCSN: 0-16967), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving with a Marine Photographic Squadron in Korea. On 30 October 1952, Major Bowers, as pilot of an unarmed photographic aircraft operating from a naval aircraft carrier, conducted a specially assigned photographic mission deep in enemy territory. In order to achieve the element of surprise necessary to the successful accomplishment of the mission, Major Bowers proceeded without fighter escort into an area known to be defended by enemy interceptors and concentrated anti-aircraft weapons. Obtaining photographic coverage far in excess of that normally expected under the flight conditions encountered, he secured intelligence information of vital importance to the United States Naval Service. His courageous conduct, exceptional professional skill and devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 7274 - 5 September 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant David W. Bowman (MCSN: 0-44613), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy during operations in Korea. First Lieutenant Bowman, serving as a Pilot attached to a Marine All Weather Fighting Squadron, engaged in a night intruder mission in the Singosan area of Northern Korea on the night of 26 October 1951. Disregarding the hazards imposed by the combination of darkness, haze, and mountainous terrain, he methodically reconnoitered his assigned sector until he noted indications of traffic on a road below. After directing the accompanying flare dropping aircraft to illuminate the area, Lieutenant Bowman executed a low level napalm attack on four trucks which were parked in close proximity and scored a direct hit which resulted in the complete destruction of all four vehicles. Despite anti-aircraft fire which this action roused, he remained in the area and sought out and destroyed two more trucks which had taken cover by the wayside. His alertness, efficient action, and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 5356 - 7 April 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Colonel George Shepard Bowman (MCSN: 0-5314), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea as Commanding Officer of a Marine Aircraft Group. On 26 March 1953, Colonel Bowman served as Tactical Air Coordinator in a massed aerial assault on enemy supply installations in the vicinity of Chinnampo. Flying attack bombers, he and his wingman reached the objective prior to the arrival of the striking force and conducted a preliminary reconnaissance of the extensive target. Suddenly and without warning they were attacked from above by four enemy jet fighters. Colonel Bowman led his wingman in countering and beating off this attack by the vastly superior enemy fighter force and, despite its continued presence in the area, proceeded to direct the Marine's striking force of jet and propeller driven fighter bombers in a closely coordinated and highly destructive attack on the enemy installations. Following the withdrawal of the striking force, he remained in the area to make low level visual damage assessments of the strike. Colonel Bowman's resolute actions in the face of the enemy fighter attack and his skillful leadership in the direction and control of his own forces were largely responsible for the success of a mission that inflicted heavy damage upon the enemy. His courageous conduct, outstanding professional ability and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 4432 - 11 April 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Joe T. Boyd (MCSN: 0-21780), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in support of the First Marine Division and the First Marine Aircraft Wing on 5 August 1951. Captain Boyd, while serving as a pilot with the Forward Echelon of a Marine Transport Squadron, flew vitally needed personnel into an improvised dirt strip, located on a river bed in the Chunch-on area of Korea. The enemy was in the area north of the strip. Extreme caution had to be used in approaching the field in order to avoid small arms fire. The weather was such as to require an instrument let-down on an unreliable homer in dangerous mountain terrain. The arrival of the vitally needed personnel greatly improved the defense positions of the FIRST Marine Division. In addition to the above action, Captain Boyd participated in more than 150 other flights in heavily loaded aircraft. Many of these flights were carried out under unusually hazardous conditions, including extremely adverse weather, hazardous mountain terrain, dangerous runways of the advanced airstrips on may occasions covered with mud or ice and snow and over guerrilla infested territory where aircraft had been fired upon and hit. Many of these flights were made into airstrips in extreme forward areas where no aids to navigation or crash facilities existed. The heavy loads of cargo and the adverse weather encountered on these flights required the utmost skill in flight planning and execution, which Captain Boyd accomplished with confidence and skill without regard for personal fatigue or danger. As a result of these flights desperately needed personnel, ammunition, and other supplies reached front line units. Captain Boyd's alertness, efficient actions and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 12234 - 30 December 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Lincoln Boyd, Jr. (MCSN: 0-30828), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy and while serving as a pilot attached to a Marine Fighter Squadron in Korea. On 23 September 1951, Captain Boyd, at the urgent request of a forward air controller for close air support, took off with his flight from a forward air base. Despite adverse weather and hazardous territory, he safely led his flight to the target area. Working in close conjunction with the forward air controller, he located two pockets of enemy troops and machine gun emplacements that were inflicting casualties on friendly troops and holding up their advance. Notwithstanding the intense and accurate small arms fire being directed at the planes, Captain Boyd, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, coordinated his attacks so as to most advantageously strike the target and keep it constantly under fire. Repeatedly, he pressed home his bombing, strafing and napalm attacks, until the mission was successfully accomplished. As a direct result of his outstanding leadership and expert marksmanship, many enemy troops were killed, four machine gun positions were destroyed and friendly forces were able to advance with a minimum of casualties. Captain Boyd's skillful flying and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 1945 - 22 February 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Lincoln Boyd, Jr. (MCSN: 0-30828), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the armed enemy in Korea on 16 December 1951. Captain Boyd, as pilot of a slow, unarmed observation aircraft, was assigned the mission of searching for active enemy artillery positions in the Ousil area, which were inflicting casualties on friendly units. Due to a low ceiling and poor visibility, Captain Boyd unhesitatingly conducted his reconnaissance at extremely low altitudes, exposing his vulnerable aircraft to intense anti-aircraft fire. Finally, after locating several active enemy artillery positions, he immediately conducted a fire mission upon them. While directing the fire mission, Captain Boyd, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, made frequent low and hazardous passes to accurately pinpoint these enemy positions, continually being fired upon by four enemy machine guns which damaged his aircraft. Although his plane was damaged he completed a highly successful mission, by skillfully directing friendly artillery in the complete destruction of three active enemy artillery positions and damaging four others. His high degree of professional competence, coolness under fire, and selfless devotion to duty were exemplary and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander Naval Forces Far East: Serial 1444 (February 20, 1941)
Action Date: 12-Oct-50
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Randall Thomas Boyd, Jr. (NSN: 0-100336), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as Patrol Plane Commander of a Patrol Bomber during a reconnaissance patrol in search of hostile mines in the vicinity of Wonsan, Korea, on 12 October 1950. When enemy shore batteries attacked United States mine sweepers with intense fire, Commander Boyd spotted hostile targets, took them under fire and held them down while the vessels escaped from the area. Braving heavy fire sent up from the ground, he controlled Naval gunfire and vectored carrier-based aircraft to the enemy positions. A skilled airman and cool leader in the face of hostile opposition, Commander Boyd, by his initiative and inspiring devotion to duty, encouraged his crew members to exert maximum effort during this engagement, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander Naval Forces Far East: Serial 1815 (March 5, 1941)
Action Date: July 2 - December 25, 1950
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Randall Thomas Boyd, Jr. (NSN: 0-100336), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as a Member of a Patrol Plane Crew in Patrol Squadron Forty-Seven (VP-47), during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, from 2 July to 25 December 1950. Completing thirty-five combat missions during this period, Commander Boyd participated in daring strikes against the enemy in the face of imminent hostile anti-aircraft fire and aerial opposition. By his outstanding skill, courage and loyal devotion to duty throughout, he contributed materially to the success of his squadron and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 1315 - 6 February 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Wayne Eugene Boyles (MCSN: 0-29971), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a pilot of a fighter aircraft against the enemy on 31 July 1951. First Lieutenant Boyles, as a member of a four plane flight on a close air support mission near Chongpyong-ni, Korea, was assigned to work with an airborne controller against several hundred enemy troops. In spite of limited visibility, low ceiling and intense small arms fire, First Lieutenant Boyles repeatedly made minimum altitude attacks with bombs, rockets and strafing against the entrenched enemy troops. These successful attacks enabled the United Nations forces to advance over this position with little opposition. This flight was credited with inflicting one hundred and ninety-five enemy casualties and destroying five heavy machine gun emplacements. First Lieutenant Boyles' aggressive leadership, efficient actions and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
By direction of the President, Airman First Class Richard N. Brace Jr, United States Air Force, has been awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for distinguishing himself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as gunner on a B-26 attack bomber with the 3d Bombardment Wing, Light, Fifth Air Force, on the night of 16 July 1953. Airman Brace displayed outstanding airmanship and crew coordination while flying armed reconnaissance over the enemy's main supply routes between Sunchon and Pyongyang, Korea. Shortly after arrival in the target area, a fire was observed in the air compressor located in the bomb bay of the aircraft, the fire was rapidly spreading throughout the rear bomb bay and gunner's compartment, and presented an immediate serious threat to the safety of the aircraft and crew. Airman Brace, without hesitation or regard for his personal safety proceeded to attack the fire in a most efficient manner. After calmly describing the situation to the pilot, he grasped a fire extinguisher, entered the bomb bay, which was fully loaded with high explosives, and extinguished the fire thereby permitting completion of the mission which resulted in the destruction of two enemy vehicles. By his outstanding courage and devotion to duty, Airman Brace has brought great credit upon himself, his organization and the United States Air Force.
The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Junior Grade Marvin T. Braddock for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of an attack plane attached to and serving with Attack Squadron One Hundred Fifty-five on the U.S.S. Princeton on 16 March 1953. Lieutenant Junior Grade Braddock, while flying as a member of an attack bomber group in the Wonsan Military Complex area of Communist-held North Korea, spotted a large number of camouflaged trucks and supplies. Despite intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, he personally destroyed four trucks and caused a large secondary explosion. His courageous conduct and superb airmanship contributed immeasurably to the success of the Princeton in its assigned missions and to the termination of the conflict with the Communist Forces in North Korea. His actions and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 61 (January 14, 1952)
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander Altus E. Bradley (NSN: 0-130031), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a fighter pilot attached to and serving with Fighter Squadron Eight Hundred Eighty-Four (VF-884), while operating from the U.S.S. Boxer (CV-21). On 10 September 1951, Lieutenant Commander Bradley led a strike against vital railroad and highway bridges near Yangdok. With courageous skill and efficiency he initiated the attack which suppressed the anti-aircraft gun positions thereby enabling the following planes to accurately destroy the bridges unmolested. Upon completion of the attack, he intercepted a radio call for air support from naval vessels in Wonsan Harbor who were at that time being shelled by a concentration of shore batteries. He immediately diverted his strike and came to their aid. Ignoring the anti-aircraft fire within that area, he directed attacks on the shore installations, silencing their barrage and destroying a confirmed thirteen of the shelling gun positions. Lieutenant Commander Bradley in showing skillful versatility and utter disregard for his own personal safety, displayed the inspiring leadership and devotion to duty that were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 5783 - 9 May 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Second Lieutenant James W. Bradley, Jr. (MCSN: 0-51594), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 18 October 1951. As wingman of a flight of three F-9F's, Second Lieutenant Bradley took off on a pre-briefed road reconnaissance mission as directed by the Joint Operations Center. In the vicinity of Singo-San a column of trucks was observed. The flight leader immediately called for an attach, then led the flight in a devastatingly accurate strafing run. Second Lieutenant Bradley followed the leader in, destroying one truck, on this initial run. Repeated runs were made during which Second Lieutenant Bradley caused damage to several other trucks. Continuing with the reconnaissance mission, the flight located an enemy supply dump in the vicinity of Kowan. As the leader commenced his attack a heavy barrage of automatic weapons fire was directed against the flight. Despite this obvious danger, Second Lieutenant Bradley pressed home the attack accurately placing a rocket on a warehouse which immediately caught fire and burned. Although the enemy relentlessly fired their anti-aircraft weapons at the flight, Second Lieutenant Bradley, without regard for his own personal safety, vigorously and unhesitatingly, made repeated runs on the target, causing additional fires and further damage to vital enemy supplies. His exceptional airmanship and high degree of personal courage contributed in large measure to the success of the flight, which in the final analysis accounted for the destruction of four trucks, damage to several others and damage to the supply dump. Second Lieutenant Bradley's high degree of professional skill, efficient action, and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 12272 - 31 December 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Lyle R. Bradley (MCSN: 0-37371), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving as a pilot attached to a Marine Fighter Squadron in Korea. On 29 May 1951, First Lieutenant Bradley took off from an advanced air base on a special strike called to neutralize the enemy railroad marshalling yard at Sariwon. With his division, Lieutenant Bradley flew deep into North Korea to this enemy stronghold. Upon reaching the objective the flight was subjected to extremely intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire. Lieutenant Bradley, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, pressed home his bombing attack and materially contributed to the success of the assigned mission. As a result of this attack the marshalling yard, four locomotives, and numerous railroad cars were severely damaged. First Lieutenant Bradley's skillful flying and his fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 2580 - 2 March 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Judson J. Bradway (MCSN: 0-34293), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy during operations in Korea. Captain Bradway, serving as a pilot attached to a Marine All-Weather Fighter Squadron, engaged in a night intruder mission near Singosan on the night of 25 August 1951. Methodically searching the roads which traverse the rugged terrain of the area for signs of traffic, he proceeded northward until he observed signs of activity in the immediate vicinity of Singosan. With full knowledge of the multitudinous anti-aircraft positions established at the site, he directed the accompanying flare dropping aircraft to illuminate the area and immediately launched a probing attack to verify the presence of vehicles. As the result of the series of highly effective napalm, bombing, and strafing attacks which he executed immediately thereafter, seven trucks including one large, fully laden gasoline transport, were completely destroyed. Captain Bradway's alertness, efficient action, and courageous devotion were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General, 1st Marine division
General Orders: Serial 36935 - 10 November 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Owen W. Brainard (MCSN: 0-44729), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea while serving with a Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron on 27 July 1953. Serving as a pilot, Captain Brainard displayed exceptional courage, professional skill and devotion to duty. He volunteered to evacuate by helicopter two critically wounded Marines from a forward medical company to a hospital shop. Despite being informed that the flight would be made during the hours of darkness, over mountainous terrain and under adverse weather conditions, he expressed complete disregard for his personal safety and made a successful flight from the squadron's forward echelon to the medical company and recovered the two wounded Marines. He then dauntlessly flew from the medical company to the hospital ship through heavy rain and fog without the aid of navigational instruments. His extremely skillful airmanship and determined actions in effecting the expeditious evacuation of the Marines aided materially in saving their lives. Captain Brainard's alertness, efficient action and outstanding devotion to duty served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 8934 - 6 June 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Henry F. Brandon (MCSN: 0-30018), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Photographic Squadron in Korea. On 2 September 1952, accompanied by 12 jet fighter escort, Captain Brandon flew an unarmed photographic plane on a high priority reconnaissance mission in the Sinuiju-shiho area of North Korea. While approaching his target, a heavily defended enemy power complex, a vastly superior force of enemy jet interceptors attempted to break through his protective escort. Despite the raging air battle, Captain Brandon pressed on to his objective. Over the target area radar controlled anti-aircraft fire, directed at Captain Brandon's aircraft, became so intense that the pursuing enemy jets were forced to disengage. Although advised to alter course by the escort leader, he disregarded the increasingly exceptionally accurate hostile fire and kept his aircraft at a constant speed and altitude obtaining vitally needed photographs. Captain Brandon's perseverance and superb airmanship were directly responsible for the success of a mission that secured intelligence information of vital importance to the United Nations' air and ground forces. His actions were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 12270 - 31 December 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Joseph L. Brandon (MCSN: 0-45308), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in an aerial flight against the enemy and while serving as a pilot attached to a Marine Fighter Squadron in Korea. On 3 June 1951, First Lieutenant Brandon, in response to a request for close air support took off with his flight from a forward air base. Arriving in the target area he immediately located a detachment of enemy troops that were attacking friendly positions. Working in close conjunction with the forward air controller and with utter disregard for the automatic weapons and small arms fire directed at the flight, First Lieutenant Brandon, displaying outstanding leadership qualities and coordination, directed his planes on this enemy force. Repeatedly attacking with napalm, bombs and rockets, he was able to completely disrupt the attack, killing many enemy troops and routing the rest. Pursuing those that fled the attack, First Lieutenant Brandon directed his flight on a small, barely accessible raving into which they were hiding. Despite hazardous terrain he repeatedly pressed home his attacks until the entire ravine had been covered with bombs and rockets. As a direct result of his expert airmanship and courageous attacks many enemy troops were killed and the enemy attacks on friendly positions completely disrupted. First Lieutenant Brandon's skillful flying and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 11713 - 1 September 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Lawrence H. Brandon (MCSN: 0-24700), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 13 April 1952, as a Marine pilot on a close air support mission. Captain Brandon, section leader of four AD's assigned targets near Chiam-ni and P'yonggang, braved intense enemy ground fire to expertly score three direct hits in each target area during bombing, napalm and strafing assaults. His efficient leadership and courageous action resulted in the destruction of one artillery piece, five artillery positions and one house in the Chiam-ni area and the destruction of five bunkers and one communications center in the P'yonggang area. Captain Brandon's expert airmanship contributed greatly to the success of the mission and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 17747 - 11 November 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Alfred F. Branham (MCSN: 0-27844), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a member of a Marine All-Weather Fighter Squadron in Korea. On 12 April 1953, while flying a Marine jet night fighter, Captain Branham escorted a pre-dawn flight of medium bombers on a high priority aerial assault against heavily defended enemy military installations deep in hostile territory. Constantly on the alert for enemy interceptor aircraft, he detected targets on his radar screen and immediately conducted interceptions on hostile jet fighters. Despite the illumination of multiple searchlight beams and barrages of radar-controlled anti-aircraft fire, he tracked the enemy aircraft and repelled their attempts to assault the bombers. The outstanding aggressiveness displayed by Captain Branham on this and numerous other night escort missions, while under constant threat of attack by numerically superior enemy jet interceptors, was a major factor in the success of massed night bombing raids on strategic enemy installations. His courageous conduct, superb airmanship and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial N. 15193 - 21 September 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Fourth Gold Star in lieu of a Fifth Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Richard Lane Braun (MCSN: 0-10301), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Attack Squadron in Korea. On 28 May 1953, Major Braun led a division of Marine attack aircraft on a close air support mission against heavily defended and well entrenched enemy bunkers and automatic weapons that were inflicting serious damage on friendly front line units. Approaching the target area, a low ceiling so reduced forward visibility that Major Braun instructed his flight to orbit out of range of hostile anti-aircraft fire while he definitely located the objective. Promptly detecting the carefully camouflaged enemy position, he rejoined the orbiting aircraft and led a daring low level assault. Diving to minimum altitude through an intense barrage of defensive fire, he scored direct hits that clearly marked the target for the remainder of the flight. Major Braun's exceptional bombing accuracy and exemplary leadership were responsible for the success of a mission that destroyed fourteen enemy personnel shelters, three automatic weapons and substantially reduced pressure on advancing elements of the United Nations ground forces. His courageous conduct, outstanding initiative and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders No. 15193 - 21 September 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Silver Star in lieu of a Sixth Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Richard Lane Braun (MCSN: 0-10301), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Attack Squadron in Korea. On 16 June 1953, Major Braun led a massed flight of Marine attack aircraft on a top priority mission deep in enemy territory to destroy a heavily defended and extremely vital enemy dam near the Yalu River. Displaying superb airmanship and exemplary leadership, Major Braun led his flight directly to the target area initiating a bombing attack, despite concentrated hostile anti-aircraft fire and repeated attacks by enemy jet interceptors, attempting to effect a break in the two hundred and twenty foot wide earthen barrier. After returning to a friendly base to refuel and rearm, Major Braun again led the flight to the area for a second strike. Diving through intense barrages of defensive fire he directed repeated assaults that seriously damaged the essential target. Major Braun's exceptional bombing accuracy and outstanding initiative were responsible for the success of a mission that inflicted serious damage to a major enemy dam. His courageous conduct and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders No. 1627 - 19 December 1950
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Thomas R. Braun (MCSN: 0-12237), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flights over enemy territory from 5 August to 20 September 1950. First Lieutenant Braun successfully completed his first through thirty-fifth combat missions against he enemy over Korea where enemy fire was either received or expected. His actions throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders No. 2601 - 31 March 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Thomas R. Braun (MCSN: 0-12237), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flights, as a pilot attached to the FIRST Marine Air Wing, from 22 September to 2 December 1950. First Lieutenant Braun successfully completed his thirty-sixth through seventieth combat missions over Korea, where enemy fire was either received or expected. These missions were flown in a slow, unarmed, observation aircraft; and were instrumental in locating enemy strong points, and spotting for our artillery. His actions throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 2620 - 1 April 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Hospital Corpsman Mondell Brazell (NSN: 3331196), United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flights against the enemy from 6 December to 9 December 1950. Hospitalman Brazell, as a Naval Corpsman attached to the First Marine Air Wing, made eight flights to the extremely small, isolated airstrips located at Koto-ri and Hagaru-ri, Korea. A concentration of enemy troops, estimated to number 70,000, completely surrounded these airstrips, and at Koto-ri, enemy troops were entrenched within 200 yards of the strip. Despite enemy small arms fire and other hazards, Hospital Brazell, as a volunteer Naval Corpsman, made these courageous flights to render immediate first aid to the 4,000 wounded evacuees, just prior to the capture of the two airstrips by the enemy. His devotion to duty and cool courage in the face of grave danger, undoubtedly saved many lives, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders No. 8598 - 7 July 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Neal E. W. Bredesen (MCSN: 0-20285), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight near Yonfyon-ni, Korea, on 9 March 1952, as a member of a Marine Attack Squadron based aboard the U.S.S. BAIROKO (CVE-115). While leading a two-plane Target Combat Air Patrol flight on the west coast of Korea, Major Bredesen was instructed by the amphibious off-shore controller to make a coastal reconnaissance and to look for targets of opportunity. Proceeding on this assignment, Major Bredesen elected to drop his five hundred pound bomb on an important road bridge near Sino-ri. In the face of intense small arms fire Major Bredesen attacked and completely destroyed the bridge. He then flew to the town of Yongyon-ni where he seriously damaged another bridge with two rockets. Saving his remaining ordnance, Major Bredesen made a hazardous and difficult low-level observation of a Mountainous area from which radar impulses have been received by off-shore patrol craft. Elaborately camouflaged cave entrances and other concealed constructions were observed on a steep mountain side. Major Bredesen informed his wingman of these latest positions and initiated several highly skillful, low-level rocket and strafing attacks on the reverse slope positions. These attacks required recovery over a ridge line from which small arms and automatic weapons fire was being received. Major Bredesen scored direct hits on the cave entrances and started several large fires that were still burning four days later. Additional fires that broke out almost immediately in other areas indicate that Major Bredesen had scored direct hit son a network of inter-connected tunnels that contained combustible materials belonging to the enemy. His courageous devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 7015 - 30 July 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Robert W. Breeze (MCSN: 0-43933), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy during the Chinese Communist offensive in Korea on 6 May 1951. First Lieutenant Breeze, as leader of a flight of four F-9F's took off on a close air support mission in response to an urgent call from the Joint Operations Center. A company of friendly troops, having been cut off from their supporting tank column, was in danger of destruction north of the town of Kumgong-ni. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, First Lieutenant Breeze made several reconnaissance runs over the target area at dangerously low altitudes in order to positively identify the friendly and enemy positions. Having carefully planned his attack, First Lieutenant Breeze then led his flight in a series of skillfully executed bombing and strafing attacks. Despite intense enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire he pressed home the attacks, inflicting heavy casualties upon the enemy thus providing for the successful withdrawal of the encircled friendly troops. First Lieutenant Breeze's aggressive leadership, efficient action and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander 7th Fleet
Serial 61 - January 14, 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander William W. Brehm, United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a pilot attached to and serving with Carrier Air Group 101, while operating from the U.S.S. BOXER (CV-21). On 10 August 1951, Commander Brehm led a flight of six fighter and four attack bombers on a bridge strike near Songjin, North Korea. Under his control the accurate bombing of the entire flight quickly accomplished the destruction of the primary targets, a key highway and a railroad bridge, during which Commander Brehm registered direct one hundred pound bomb hits on each bridge. At Kilchu the flight rendered the only serviceable railroad bridge unusable and he obtained another direct one hundred pound bomb hit. Proceeding to Tanchon, he scored a direct five hundred pound bomb hit on the most vital concrete highway bridge and dropped two of the center spans while other members of the flight destroyed a railroad bridge and cut two railroad bypass bridges, making a total of eight bridges destroyed or cut by only ten aircraft. This destruction was accomplished in the face of scattered to moderate ground fire and his plane suffered minor damage. In subsequent strafing attacks a serious internal wing explosion occurred which rendered the aircraft almost unmanageable, but he was able to return to the ship and land safely. His inspiring leadership and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander 7th Fleet
Serial 61 - January 14, 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander William W. Brehm, United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Commander, Carrier Air Group 101, while operating from the U.S.S. BOXER (CV-21). On 20 May 1951, Commander Brehm led a flight of seven fighters and seven attack bombers on a close air support mission over the front lines near Yongnae-ri, Korea. He was directed by an airborne controller to lead his attacks on two positions on a ridge and in a valley where an estimated eight hundred enemy troops were dug in and he as informed that a ground controller would pin-point his attacks on certain important locations that were only one hundred yards form friendly lines. He aggressively led his flight in a series of destructive bombing, napalm, and strafing attacks through a withering hail of intense and accurate light anti-aircraft fire. He continued to make attacks until all ordnance was expended although his aircraft was slightly damaged by the anti-aircraft fire. The controller estimated that two hundred enemy troops were killed in action in addition to the destruction of two machine gun bunkers, six trucks and an ammunition dump. When the flight returned from the area and friendly troops moved in, they discovered approximately two thousand casualties as a direct result of the devastating air attacks. His inspiring leadership and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 1937 - 22 February 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Donald T. Brennan (MCSN: 0-25486), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of Marine Fighter Squadron Three Hundred Twelve (VMF-312), on 9 October 1951 in the vicinity of Changjae-dae, Korea. While on close air support mission, First Lieutenant Brennan took command of a four plane flight when his division leader's radio failed. He directed the attack against ten mortar positions from which the enemy had succeeded in pinning down friendly troops and despite hazardous terrain and intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, he led repeated low level attacks which completely neutralized all the enemy positions. By his courage and skillful airmanship, First Lieutenant Brennan personally accounted for four mortars destroyed and two damaged. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 2208 - 19 March 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Austin E. Brenneman (MCSN: 0-39340), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a pilot attached to a Marine Fighter Squadron in Korea during the period 6 October 1950 to 5 December 1950. First Lieutenant Brenneman completed his thirty-fifth mission in close support of ground forces, destroying and inflicting great damage to concentrations of enemy vehicles, material, and personnel, thereby contributing effectively to the defense of South Korea. By his airmanship and devotion to duty in the face of enemy anti-aircraft fire he contributed materially to the success of the friendly forces. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 2157 - 18 March 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Corporal William O. Brennen (MCSN: 669883), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as Radio Operator of an R-4D transport aircraft from 1 December 1950 to 5 December 1950. Corporal Brennen made seventeen landings and take-offs from extremely small and hastily constructed airstrips located at Koto-ri and Hagaru-ri, Korea. A concentration of enemy troops, estimated to number seventy thousand, completely surrounded these airstrips, and at the Koto-ri strip, enemy troops were entrenched within two hundred yards. Despite enemy small arms fire and other hazards, Corporal Brennen, as a member of the crew, made these courageous flights to carry ammunition, food, and medical supplies to the FIRST Marine Division and then to evacuate the wounded to rear areas. His devotion to duty and cool courage in the face of grave danger was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 14560 - 10 September 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain George R. Brier (MCSN: 0-48977), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving with a Marine Fighter Squadron in Korea. On 7 August 1952, as a member of a flight of Marine jet fighter-bombers, Captain Brier engaged in a high priority close air support mission against heavily defended and well entrenched enemy artillery positions then inflicting serious damage on front line units of the United Nations ground forces. Promptly locating the carefully camouflaged hostile batteries, Captain Brier initiated a low-level bombing and strafing assault. Despite an intense barrage of hostile anti-aircraft fire, he skillfully maneuvered his aircraft through the precipitous terrain and scored a direct bomb hit that demolished two enemy artillery weapons, one personnel bunker and inflicted heavy enemy casualties. Captain Brier's exceptional bombing accuracy and exemplary initiative were largely responsible for the success of a mission that destroyed a major enemy stronghold and substantially reduced pressure on advancing friendly troops. His courageous conduct, outstanding aggressiveness and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 9217 - 5 October 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Master Sergeant James D. Briggs (MCSN: 545457), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy on 24 June 1951 in Korea. While performing a night intruder mission in the Sariwon area, Sergeant Briggs located an enemy warehouse with several trucks along side in the process of transferring their loads. Despite the hazards imposed by darkness and rugged terrain, Sergeant Briggs aggressively initiated a series of attacks, pursuing his runs to dangerously low altitudes in order to insure the maximum effectiveness of his guns, rockets and bombs. Ignoring intense anti-aircraft fire, Sergeant Briggs persisted in his attacks until the warehouse, three trucks, and their associated supplies had been destroyed. Sergeant Briggs aggressive devotion to duty, superb airmanship and complete disregard for his personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 18105 - 18 November 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Marvin L. Brill (MCSN: 0-51619), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Attack Squadron in Korea. On 1 July 1,53, First Lieutenant Brill led a flight of Marine attack aircraft on a pre-briefed mission against a heavily defended and well entrenched enemy strong point that was causing serious damage to friendly front line units. Locating the carefully camouflaged enemy position under a broken cloud layer in close proximity to friendly troops, he initiated a dive bombing assault. Diving to minimum altitude, in the face of intense hostile defensive fire, he scored direct bomb hits that clearly marked the objective for the remainder of the flight. He then directed a dive bombing assault that damaged four personnel shelters, seventy-five yards of trench and caused three secondary explosions. First Lieutenant Brill's outstanding leadership and exceptional bombing accuracy were responsible for the success of a mission that severely damaged a major enemy stronghold, inflicted heavy casualties and substantially reduced pressure on front line units of the United Nations ground forces. His exemplary conduct throughout reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 3489 - 7 March 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel Manuel Brilliant (MCSN: 0-7171), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea. On 3 October 1951, Lieutenant Colonel Brilliant led a twelve plane flight of Marine attack aircraft on a mission against a major enemy supply installation in the vicinity of the Han estuary. Upon locating the heavily defended target, he immediately deployed his flight and initiated a low level bombing attack through an increasingly intense barrage of defensive fire. Scoring direct hits with his bombs and rockets, Lieutenant Colonel Brilliant then continued to lead and direct his flight in repeated attacks that resulted in the destruction of eight enemy strongholds and the neutralization of all visible anti-aircraft positions. His skillful deployment of the flight and aggressive leadership were largely responsible for the success of a mission that seriously impaired the enemy supply and communications system, and substantially disrupted enemy operations within the area of attack. Lieutenant Colonel Brilliant's courageous conduct, outstanding professional skill, and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders No. 10959 - 6 July 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel Manuel Brilliant (MCSN: 0-7171), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Fighter Squadron in Korea. On 30 November 1951, Lieutenant Colonel Brilliant led a flight of Marine fighter aircraft on a coastal armed reconnaissance mission near Ullyul. Promptly locating a carefully camouflaged enemy troop and supply concentration, he initiated a daring bombing assault that destroyed large supply buildings and left the area in flames. He then led an aggressive rocket attack on the main supply route, destroying enemy warehouses and inflicting heavy enemy casualties. Continuing the reconnaissance, Lieutenant Colonel Brilliant observed a heavy concentration of enemy troops in bunkers and slit trenches, and immediately led repeated low-level bombing and strafing assaults. Despite intense hostile anti-aircraft fire, he directed his flight in the complete destruction of the objective. Lieutenant Colonel Brilliant's own bombing accuracy and exemplary leadership were largely responsible for the success of a mission that completely destroyed an enemy troop concentration destined to reinforce enemy front line units. His courageous conduct, outstanding aggressiveness and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 490 - 21 January 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Technical Sergeant Lloyd B. Britt (MCSN: 408736), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flights over enemy territory from 7 August 1950 to 26 September 1950. Technical Sergeant Britt successfully completed his first through thirty-fifth combat missions against the enemy over Korea where enemy fire was either received or expected. His actions throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander Naval Forces Far East
General Orders: Serial No. 1815 - 5 March 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Aviation Machinist's Mate First Class Jolly Wilburn Britton (NSN: 2727409), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a member of a Patrol Plane crew in Patrol Squadron Forty-Seven (VP-47) during the Korean Conflict. Participating in thirty-six strike missions against enemy forces during the period 2 July 1950 through 25 December 1950, in areas where enemy aircraft and anti-aircraft fire could be expected, he contributed materially to the success of his squadron. His skill, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Lieutenant Weldon C Britton, a member of a tank battalion, is awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroic achievement while participating in aerial flight in the vicinity of Naeyu, Korea. On 24 May 1952, Lieutenant Britton flew repeated reconnaissance flights at low altitudes over enemy-held territory in order to assist officers of his company in selecting targets for an attack. The following day, during an assault on the hostile positions, he ignored the hazards resulting from intense hostile anti-aircraft fire to fly over the enemy targets at an altitude of only four hundred feet, skillfully directing the fire of his company's tanks. The heroism and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Britton on this occasion contributed significantly to the success of the attack and reflect great credit on himself and the military service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Division
General Orders: Serial 26655 - 6 September 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain William A. Brockman (MCSN: 0-27147), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 11 July 1952. Captain Brockman, serving as a pilot with a Marine Observation Squadron, was assigned the mission of searching for activity in a particular area of enemy territory where heavy caliber anti-aircraft fire could be expected. He spotted two enemy truck convoys well behind enemy lines and although hampered by rain and coming darkness, skillfully maneuvered his slow, unarmed, observation type aircraft under dangerously low ceiling to permit his observer to adjust artillery fire on both convoys simultaneously. In accomplishing this mission the plane was subjected to an intense volume of automatic weapons and anti-aircraft fire. Despite the continuous fire, Captain Brockman remained on station, successfully disrupting both truck convoys and causing considerable damage by artillery fire, only returning to base when complete darkness made further adjustment impossible. Captain Brockman's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 11699 - 1 September 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant J. Whit Brogdon, Jr. (MCSN: 0-51288), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 17 March 1952. First Lieutenant Brogdon, section leader in a flight of 7 AD's on a close air support mission, was instructed to attack automatic weapons positions near Hach'ong. When intense anti-aircraft fire was threatening the success of the mission, he accompanied the flight leader on a daring neutralization raid against the positions. First Lieutenant Brogdon scored a direct hit on one automatic weapon which had been firing at the flight. His heroic and skillful actions resulted in the destruction of five automatic weapons and the infliction of twenty casualties. First Lieutenant Brogdon's superb airmanship and fearless devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 2811 - 5 March 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Denton E. Brome, III (MCSN: 0-15665), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in support of the FIRST Marine Division and First Marine Air Wing during the Korean Conflict. On 6 December 1950, Captain Brome while serving as a pilot, with the Forward Echelon of a Marine Transport Squadron, volunteered to fly his aircraft for use as a Tactical Air Direction Center, Airborne. Although no facilities were available for maintaining an R5D aircraft at Yonpo airstrip in North Korea, it was through the concentrated efforts of Captain Brome and his crew, that an Airborne Tactical Direction Center was installed in an unarmed R5D aircraft and maintained throughout daylight hours on station over the target areas where sporadic anti-aircraft fire was encountered, and where enemy aircraft were reported. The Tactical Air Direction Center staff was able to direct all tactical aircraft to their targets, and to keep attack areas under observation, noting the result of air attacks against the enemy and the general effectiveness of air support in this operation. As a result of this action, invaluable assistance was rendered to the general effectiveness of air support during this operation, and the First Marine Division on its march from Hagaru-ri to Hungnam. Captain Brome's alertness, efficient action, and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Marvin S. Broomhead (NSN: 0-538977), United States Navy, for personal heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as the pilot of an attack bomber on a strike against enemy railroad bridges in the Kumwon area of Korea on 8 February 1952. Participating in a vigorous and persistent glide bombing attack on an enemy bridge, Ensign Broomhead, his aircraft damaged by a bursting hail of anti-aircraft fire, pressed home his attack and continued to the destruction of said bridge before crash landing his aircraft behind enemy lines. His relentless fighting spirit and courageous devotion to duty maintained with complete disregard for his own personal safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 16386 - 13 October 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant William Q. Brothers, Jr. (MCSN: 0-52322), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving with a Marine jet fighter squadron in Korea. On 17 July 1953, as a member of a division of Marine jet fighter-bombers, First Lieutenant Brothers participated in a close air support mission against a heavily defended enemy road bridge. After successfully completing an aerial assault that severely damaged the strategic structure, he noticed that the flight leader's aircraft had been hit by an explosive hostile projectile and was rapidly loosing altitude. First Lieutenant Brothers immediately notified rescue facilities and then, with complete disregard for his own safety, conducted low level runs in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire in order to ascertain the downed pilot's condition. Displaying superb airmanship, he orbited at minimum altitude despite increasingly accurate defensive fire and thereby greatly reduced the downed aviator's peril and facilitated his immediate rescue. First Lieutenant Brothers' heroic actions and exemplary initiative were responsible for the success of the mission and the saving of a fellow Marine's life. His courageous conduct, perseverance and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 11602 - 11 December 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Charles A. Broudy (MCSN: 0-36254), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 10 September 1951. Captain Broudy, as leader of a flight of four aircraft, took off on a close air support mission directed by the Joint Operations Center. Captain Broudy contacted an airborne controller near the town of Mundug-ni, and was directed to attack a large number of troops and machine gun positions deployed along a ridge line. Captain Broudy called for the target to be marked with smoke in order to positively identify the enemy positions and make a series of reconnaissance runs to dangerously low altitudes to determine the location of friendly front lines. Despite intense enemy ground fire, Captain Broudy led his flight in a series of expertly executed bombing and strafing attacks, neutralizing the gun positions and inflicting heavy casualties upon the enemy. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he continued his attacks in the face of a lowering ceiling and reduced visibility until his flight expended all their ammunition. Captain Broudy's courageous leadership, efficient action and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 5292 - 28 April 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Master Sergeant Carroll E. Brown (MCSN: 634274), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight during operations against the enemy in Korea. Master Sergeant Brown, serving as a pilot attached to a Marine All Weather Fighter Squadron, engaged in a night intruder mission over eastern North Korea on the night of 19 February 1952. He carefully reconnoitered the supply routes of his assigned sector until he discovered traffic on the road from Hoeyang to Singosan. Without the aid of flare illumination Master Sergeant Brown dove his aircraft into the mountain valley executing a series of napalm, bombing, and strafing attacks which resulted in the destruction of six vehicles. Despite the hazards created by mountainous terrain, lack of illumination, restricted visibility, and intense anti-aircraft fire he persisted in his attacks until his ordnance was expended. Master Sergeant Brown's alertness, superb airmanship and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 15893 - 25 November 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain David A. Brown (MCSN: 0-23089), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight in attacks against the enemy in Korea. On 4 June 1952, Captain Brown, a member of a flight of four fighter aircraft, was assigned a mission to seek out and destroy active enemy artillery positions which were inflicting heavy damage and casualties to ground forces of the Republic of Korea. Upon locating the target, situated in rugged mountainous terrain, Captain Brown flew his aircraft through intense and accurate enemy anti-aircraft fire in an attempt to silence the enemy's artillery pieces. On his second attack, Captain Brown's aircraft was hit by the defensive fire. Without hesitation or regard for his own personal safety, Captain Brown continued to fly his damaged aircraft in repeated attacks at tree top level accurately placing a napalm bomb directly on an enemy artillery position. Hid courage, outstanding airmanship and unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Edgar R. Brown, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as a Member of a Patrol Plane Crew in Patrol Squadron Six during operations against enemy aggressor force in Korea from 8 July 1950 to 28 January 1951. Completing thirty-five missions during this period, he participated in patrol and reconnaissance flights over an active combat area in the face of grave hazards and contributed materially to the success of his squadron. His skill, courage and devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Ensign Gerald Rodney Brown (NSN: 0-505733), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a Navy Corsair Fighter while attached to and serving with Fighter Squadron One Hundred Thirteen (VF-113), embarked in U.S.S. Philippine Sea (CV-47), action against enemy forces in North Korea on 25 May 1952. Ensign Brown participated in one of the largest carrier air attacks of the Korean War directed against the industrial facilities within the hostile city of Chonjin, North Korea. His bold combat tactics and expert aerial skill were directly responsible for the infliction of extensive damage upon the enemy. Though opposed by an intense barrage of accurate anti-aircraft fire, he pressed home repeated bombing attacks against the enemy, his unerring marksmanship accounting for two direct hits on a large munitions factory, directly contributing to its destruction, and two direct hits on a large marshalling yard destroying a cluster of 10 loaded boxcars. After effectively expending his bomb load, he located two gun positions which were harassing other members of his strike group and reducing the effectiveness of the bombing attacks. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he initiated a series of strafing attacks on the gun emplacements, pouring a stream of machine gun fire into the exposed positions until both were permanently silenced. Ensign Brown's gallant devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal hazard combined with his superb airship reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander 7th Fleet
Serial 835 (May 7, 1953)
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant James L. Brown, Jr. (NSN: 0-403331), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a pilot of a night fighter plane of Composite Squadron Three (VC-3), Unit George, and serving with Fighting Squadron Eight Hundred Seventy-Four (VF-874) on board the U.S.S. Oriskany (CVA-34) on 10 December 1952. While flying a combat strike over Communist-held North Korea in the Chongin area, Lieutenant Brown piloted his plane during the hours of total darkness and over mountainous terrain on his primary mission as a night heckler. He and his wingman, operating as a team, succeeded in locating two locomotives, four tank cars, and eight box cars in the marshalling yard of Ponggang. With the aid of flares, he pressed a low-level bombing attack against two locomotives, completely destroying one and heavily damaging the other. Despite intense anti-aircraft fire he made repeated attacks, destroying four of the railroad cars and severely damaging four more. He then made two additional bombing runs by the light of the burning cars, making a rail cut and scored a direct hit on a large storage building. By his outstanding courage and initiative, with disregard for his personal safety, he dealt an effective blow to the enemy's transportation system and materially aided the interdiction efforts of the United Nations Forces against the enemy. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Ensign Jesse Leroy Brown (NSN: 0-504477), United States Navy, for heroism in aerial flight as Pilot of a fighter plane in Fighter Squadron THIRTY-TWO (VF-32), attached to the U.S.S. LEYTE (CV-32), in hostile attacks on hostile North Korean forces. Participating in 20 strikes on enemy military installations, lines of communication, transportation facilities, and enemy troop concentrations in the face of grave hazard, at the Chosin Reservoir, Takshon, Manp Jin, Linchong, Sinuiju, Kasan, Wonsan, Chonjin, Kilchu, and Sinanju during the period 12 October to 4 December 1950. With courageous efficiency and utter disregard for his own personal safety, Ensign Brown, while in support of friendly troops in the Chosin Reservoir area, pressed home numerous attacks destroying an enemy troop concentration moving to attack our troops. So aggressive were these attacks, in the face of enemy anti-aircraft fire, that they finally resulted in the destruction of Ensign Brown's plane by anti-aircraft fire. His gallant devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
[KWE Note: Ensign Brown was the Navy's first black pilot. He died in the Chosin Reservoir campaign.]
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial No. 342 - 8 March 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade LaVerne William Brown, Jr. (NSN: 0-389403), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving with Patrol Squadron Forty-Six (VP-46), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 6 July to 8 November 1950. As a Pilot of a patrol plane he participated in 35 operational flights over hostile territory.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Leslie Eugene Brown (MCSN: 0-19930), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Pilot and Tactical Air Coordinator of Marine Aircraft Group Twelve in action against enemy aggressor forces as Huksu-ri, Korea, on 12 November 1950. Responsible for planning and organizing a coordinated strike on a hostile command post in an area without ground control, Captain Brown personally insured that friendly forces would be cleared from the vicinity during the attack and, after completing his orientation during the last hours of darkness, effected a before dawn takeoff. Under extremely adverse weather conditions which necessitated a descent through an overcast over hazardous mountainous terrain, he skillfully coordinated and led the strike into the target at dawn, taking the enemy completely by surprise. Boldly pressing home dangerous, low-level attacks in the face of intense hostile small-arms fire, he was responsible in great measure for the infliction of heavy casualties upon the enemy and for the destruction of the command post. By his ability as a leader and airman and his indomitable devotion to duty, Captain Brown contributed materially to the success of friendly ground forces in seizing their objective with little opposition, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 16422 - 15 October 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Nelson E. Brown (MCSN: 0-36006), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving with a Marine Fighter Squadron in Korea. On 30 June 1953, as a member of a division of Marine jet fighter-bombers, Captain Brown participated in an armed reconnaissance mission to seek out and destroy targets of opportunity along the enemy's main supply route in North Korea. Locating a heavily defended road bridge, Captain Brown initiated a minimum altitude bombing assault. Diving through intense hostile anti-aircraft fire, he scored direct bomb hits on the bridge that caused severe damage. Continuing the reconnaissance, he sighted another bridge and, despite increasingly accurate defensive fire, conducted a low-level attack that damaged a portion of the structure and cut its connecting road. Captain Brown's exceptional bombing accuracy and perseverance were responsible for the destruction of two vital links in the enemy's route of supply to front line troops. His courageous conduct, superb airmanship and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General, 1st Marine Division
General Orders: Serial No. 12674 - 13 April 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Robert R. Brown (MCSN: 0-48159), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea while serving with a Marine Observation Squadron on 16 December 19052. Serving as a pilot, First Lieutenant Brown displayed exceptional courage, professional skill and devotion to duty. He volunteered to make a hazardous night evacuation mission over mountainous terrain. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he took off in complete darkness and under adverse weather conditions he maneuvered his helicopter to the designated pickup point. Making a landing by the illumination of flashlights, he directed the loading of the critically wounded Marine and successfully accomplished the dangerous return flight. First Lieutenant Brown's efficient actions and outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 8597 - 31 May 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Vance E. Brown (MCSN: 0-51827), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight with a Marine Attack Squadron in Korea. On 1 February 1953, First Lieutenant Brown engaged in an aerial assault against heavily entrenched enemy front line forces then opposing elements of the FIRST Marine Division. Diving through intense automatic weapons fire, he conducted a daring low level napalm assault that inflicted severe damage on enemy personnel bunkers. In the face of concentrated hostile fire he immediately initiated a second attack during which he completed the destruction of the enemy installations and caused heavy enemy casualties. First Lieutenant Brown's bombing accuracy and outstanding aggressiveness were largely responsible for the success of a mission that substantially reduced pressure on front line units of the FIRST Marine Division. His courageous conduct, exceptional initiative and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Board Serial 107 (January 29, 1951)
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign William Edmund Brown, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a Fighter Plane in Fighter Squadron 53 (VF-53), attached to U.S.S. Valley Forge (CV-45). Ensign Brown while upholding policies of the United Nations Security Council, disregarded extreme dangers and grave hazards and carried out numerous attacks on air installations, industrial areas, transportation facilities, troop concentrations and shipping in enemy-held territory of Korea during the period 18 July to 25 September 1950. His skill, courage, and devotion to duty contributed greatly to the success of his squadron and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commanding General, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
Serial: 7761 - August 24, 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain William Edwin Brown (MCSN: 0-28831), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy during the attack on enemy positions at Hang-ye, Korea, on 21 March 1951. Captain Brown, serving as a pilot with a Marine Fighter Squadron, was a member of a flight of four aircraft requested to attack an enemy position entrenched on a ridge. The target was obscured by dense smoke and haze which made it extremely difficult to locate from the air. Completely disregarding his own safety, Captain Brown, in the face of intense enemy ground fire, pressed repeated attacks to dangerously low altitudes in a determined effort to neutralize the target. Through his skillful airmanship, forty enemy troops were killed, enabling our ground forces to overrun the position with little opposition. His aggressive action and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 5858 - 25 June 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Jesse M. Browne, Jr. (MCSN: 0-40003), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight while serving with a Marine Observation Squadron during combat operations at Chunchow, Korea, on 16 April 1951. First Lieutenant Browne was instrumental in inflicting heavy casualties on enemy troops opposing the advance of friendly forces. As pilot of a slow, unarmed vulnerable plane, First Lieutenant Browne flew at extremely low altitudes to determine the positions of enemy concentrations. He then led fighter air strikes by diving his aircraft repeatedly at the enemy, marking their positions with smoke bombs. First Lieutenant Browne, without regard for his own safety, led and coordinated the attack in a courageous manner, which resulted in heavy casualties upon the enemy and enabled the friendly ground forces to take their objective with little opposition. His aggressive leadership, efficient action and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial No. 989 - 31 October 1950
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant John Browne (MCSN: 0-35984), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in the Korean theater during the period 21 September to 27 September 1945. As pilot of a fighter plane he participated in thirty-five strike missions over enemy territory.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant John Browne (MCSN: 0-35984), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in action against North Korean forces on 27 September 1950, while flying as a member of Marine Fighter Squadron Three Hundred Twenty-Three (VMF-323) in close support of the friendly forces. Lieutenant Browne made a dangerously low level napalm attack on Hill 338, northeast of Seoul, Korea, which was heavily-fortified by the enemy forces and holding up our forces on their advance northward. With daring airmanship and superb accuracy Lieutenant Browne made a direct hit on the enemy position with his bomb and then made repeated low level rocket and strafing runs in the face of intense and accurate enemy automatic weapons and small arms fire. With his ordnance expended and with complete disregard for his own personal safety he made run after run of dummy attacks until our forces had overrun the enemy positions. His outstanding actions and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant John Browne (MCSN: 0-35984), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a pilot attached to a Marine Aircraft Group from 29 September 1950 through 3 January 1951. First Lieutenant Browne successfully completed his 36th through 70th combat mission in support of our ground forces, destroying and inflicting great damage to concentrations of North Korean vehicles, material and personnel. By his airmanship and devotion to duty in the face of enemy anti-aircraft fire, he contributed materially to the success of our troops. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 7845 - 22 June 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Richard C. Browning (MCSN: 0-29007), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as the pilot of a fighter aircraft against the enemy in Korea on 23 July 1951. Captain Browning led a four plane strike on Utchikongo, an important enemy rail supply center. Though forced to fly through mountainous terrain, and to navigate on instruments because of low ceilings and inclement weather, Captain Browning's determined efforts brought the flight to the target area safely. Although forced to dangerously low altitude by poor weather conditions, he led his flight in two attacks on the target. He scored several rocket hits and accurately dropped his napalm bomb on the enemy rail and ammunition supplies. Upon completion of the attacks, numerous fires and secondary explosions were observed. The intensity of enemy ground fire resulted in three damaged aircraft in this flight and one pilot was wounded. Captain Browning's plane was struck by enemy fire and he was forced to bail out over nearby waters patrolled by friendly surface vessels. The courageous action and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Browning were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 7023 - 30 July 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain James P. Bruce (MCSN: 0-32811), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy on 3 February 1951, near Chochon-dong, Korea. Captain Bruce, serving as a helicopter pilot with a Marine Observation Squadron was responsible for locating two friendly infantry companies which had lost communication contact. After locating these units which were engaged in a fire fight with guerilla troops, he relayed information to friendly fighter aircraft for air support. Following this Captain Bruce re-supplied the two companies with adequate radio equipment to regain communications contact. Despite the face that he was taking a great personal risk landing his vulnerable, unarmed aircraft in a position which necessitated balancing the skids on a narrow ridge, he continued to support these units by additional flights to supply rations and ammunition. His skillful airmanship, tenacious desire to assist these endangered units and his fearless devotion to duty were exemplary and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 10568 - 30 June 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Ronald L. Bruce (MCSN: 0-20529), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Fighter Squadron in Korea on 13 January 1953 to 14 January 1953, during a series of massed aerial assaults on a heavily defended bridge complex in the vicinity of Sinanju. Confronted by intense hostile anti-aircraft fire and under constant threat of attack by superior jet interceptors, major Bruce led two successive bombing missions to suppress hostile fire directed at the main striking force. On one of these strikes he was directed to engage a well camouflaged enemy heavy anti-aircraft weapon that had previously inflicted serious damage on attacking aircraft. Successfully locating the concealed target, Major Bruce dived through a barrage of hostile fire to score direct bomb hits that silenced the heavy weapon and clearly marked the objective for the remainder of his flight. He then conducted each bombing run with such skill that complete destruction of the enemy battery was achieved. Major Bruce's aggressive leadership and exceptional accuracy in the delivery of his attack were largely responsible for the success of a mission that substantially reduced enemy opposition during succeeding attacks on the vital target. His courageous conduct, outstanding professional skill and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 4102 - 3 April 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Erwin J. Bruchman (MCSN: 0-36007), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight while serving with a Marine Fighter Squadron on 26 October 1951. While on a close air support mission near Oryang-ni, Korea, Captain Bruchman's flight was directed by an airborne observer to one of the enemy's main supply routes in the forward area. Ground units had reported several trucks loaded with supplies vital to the enemy's mission parked and camouflaged near the road. These trucks were defended by a tank and several automatic anti-aircraft weapons. Captain Bruchman left his flight orbiting at a safe altitude while he made several low level reconnaissance passes through heavy automatic weapons fire to locate the camouflaged vehicles. After finding the target Captain Bruchman completely disregarding the fact that his aircraft had been hit several times, led his flight in a series of devastating attacks on the vehicles. Through skillful use of his ordnance he personally destroyed six trucks and their accompanying tank. During this engagement Captain Bruchman displayed outstanding qualities of leadership, courage and aggressiveness. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 4101 - 3 April 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Erwin J. Bruchman (MCSN: 0-36007), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Fighter Squadron, on 23 December 1951, in the vicinity of Nonam-ni, Korea. Captain Bruchman, as leader of an eight-plane flight on a deep support mission was personally responsible, by his daring and skillful leadership, for the destruction of four artillery pieces and four bunkers. Despite hazardous terrain and the fact that his plane was hit several times by intense and accurate ground fire, he led repeated and accurate bombing attacks on the heavily guarded positions and scored direct hits with two one-thousand pound bombs. Realizing that the heavy ground fire was a constant menace to the rest of his flight and with complete disregard for his own safety, he strafed gun positions until they were completely silenced. Due to his heroic actions and aggressive leadership the flight was credited with the destruction of the artillery pieces, bunkers and many gun positions. His actions throughout the entire engagement were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General, 1st Marine Division
General Orders: Serial No. 17866 - 28 June 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Sherwood A. Brunnenmeyer (MCSN: 0-45475), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while attached to a Marine Artillery Regiment in Korea on 7 November 1951. First Lieutenant Brunnenmeyer, an aerial observer flying in a slow, unarmed, observation aircraft, displayed outstanding initiative and personal bravery while searching for enemy artillery and mortar positions. While making several low reconnaissance passes over the enemy positions, the aircraft from which he was observing was hit and damaged by intense enemy machine gun fire. Nevertheless, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, he continued his search mission, relaying the information obtained to a Marine regiment. Although the aircraft was hit several more times, he continued searching the area until a damaged fuel line forced his return to friendly lines. As a result of his courageous actions several artillery and mortar positions were found and later taken under fire by supporting arms. First Lieutenant Brunnenmeyer's perseverance and heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Reginald C. Brunson for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an Aircraft Commander on 22 August 1950. Flying a lone RR-29 without benefit of fighter escort, Lieutenant Brunson conducted photo reconnaissance under the most adverse and hazardous conditions. The target for his mission was the hydro-electric plant located adjacent to the Sui-ho Reservoir near Namsenni on the Korean-Manchurian border, heavily defended by anti-aircraft batteries. Lieutenant Brunson piloted his aircraft deep into enemy territory and, despite extremely adverse weather conditions which prevented the accomplishment of the mission as briefed, he formulated a plan by which the desired photographs could be obtained. Because of the close location of the target to the Manchurian border and the danger of violating that border, the choice for the axis of the photo runs was considerably restricted. Descending to a low altitude, in the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Brunson, by his inspiring leadership, professional skill, and complete disregard for personal safety, procured excellent photographs for use in future bombardment planning and intelligence data. Lieutenant Brunson's superior mission planning, tenacity of purpose and courageous devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Electronics Technician First Class Edward M. Bryan (NSN: 3114862), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as a Member of a Patrol Plane Crew in Patrol Squadron Forty-Seven (VP-47), during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, from 2 July to 25 December 1950. Completing thirty-five combat missions during this period, he participated in daring strikes against the enemy in the face of imminent hostile anti-aircraft fire and aerial opposition. By his outstanding skill, courage and loyal devotion to duty throughout, he contributed materially to the success of his squadron and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 16422 - 15 October 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel Leslie T. Bryan (MCSN: 0-6996), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as Commanding Officer of a Marine jet photographic squadron in Korea. On 16 July 1953, as pilot of a n unarmed Marine jet photographic aircraft, Lieutenant Colonel Bryan conducted a high priority aerial reconnaissance deep in enemy territory to obtain photographs of military installations near Pyongyang, the North Korean capitol. In order to achieve the element of surprise necessary to the successful accomplishment of his mission, Lieutenant Colonel Bryan proceeded without benefit of armament or fighter escort into an area known to be heavily defended by enemy jet interceptors and concentrated anti-aircraft to obtain the photographic coverage requested. With complete disregard for his own safety he pressed his mission to completion despite the fact that attack by enemy jet fighters was imminent. Lieutenant Colonel Bryan's heroic actions and exemplary initiative were responsible for the success of a mission that obtained vital intelligence information in excess of that normally expected under the flight conditions encountered. His courageous conduct, professional ability and selfless devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade William Arnold Bryant, Jr. (NSN: 0-442481), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Division Leader attached to Fighter Squadron 54 (VF-54), embarked on board the U.S.S. Valley Forge, engaged in action against North Korean Forces hostile to the policies of the United Nations Security Council. During the period 3 July to 27 September 1950, in the face of grave hazards to himself and his aircraft, he repeatedly led his Division in aggressive and telling attacks on targets of prime military importance including railroads, bridges, troop concentrations, heavily defended strong points and front line areas vital to the movement of friendly forces. These attacks in the face of heavy enemy opposition from the ground and in the air took him to all parts of Korea; Chonjin, Pyongyang, Wonsan, Inchon, Seoul, and Taejon. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bryant's courage, skill and leadership were instrumental in the decisive victories achieved by the United Nations' Forces and his heroism, devotion to duty and judgment were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 4499 - 18 May 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant William Weldon Bryant (MCSN: 0-35005), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy during the amphibious landing of South Korean Troops north of P'ohang, on 15 September 1950. First Lieutenant Bryant, while serving as a pilot attached to a Marine All-Weather Fighter Squadron, in an effort to make possible the amphibious landing in enemy territory and at great personal danger, remained over the area during intense enemy anti-aircraft and small arms fire and made repeated attacks on enemy positions, delivering devastating fire. He continued to make low attacks over the enemy even after all of his ammunition was expended. First Lieutenant Bryant persisted in his efforts to prevent enemy troops from inflicting damage on the South Korean Troops by obtaining the maximum endurance out of his aircraft and in so doing destroyed a number of enemy anti-aircraft and mortar positions as well as a large number of enemy troops. His alertness, efficient actions and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 11699 - 1 September 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel Robert L. Bryson (MCSN: 0-8059), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 10 May 1952 as a Marine fighter pilot on a close air support mission. Lieutenant Colonel Bryson, braving unfavorable weather and a hail of anti-aircraft fire, boldly engaged the enemy in a sweeping raid near Otan-ni. His vigorous rocket, bombing and strafing attacks, executed in the face of grave personal risk, demolished five bunkers, several mortars and automatic weapons positions, inflicted numerous casualties and greatly weakened the enemy's position in this sector. Lieutenant Colonel Bryson's superb airmanship and zealous devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Edmund Buchser, Jr. (MCSN: 0-28682), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea. On 18 December 1952, Major Buchser led a flight of Marine jet fighters against a heavily defended railroad tunnel in the vicinity of Pyongyang. Quickly locating the objective, he immediately initiated the attack through an intense barrage of anti-aircraft fire and sealed the tunnel with direct bomb hits. Major Buchser then led and directed his flight in accurately executed bombing attacks that completely demolished a nearby bridge. His outstanding leadership in organizing and directing the attacks was largely responsible for the success of a mission that disrupted a major enemy supply line.
Headquarters, Commanding General, 1st Marine Division
General Orders: Serial No. 19525 - 8 June 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Clifford W. Buckingham (MCSN: 0-25350), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea while serving with a Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron on 15 October 1952. Serving as a pilot, Major Buckingham displayed exceptional courage, professional skill and devotion to duty. Despite prior knowledge that the flight would take place over mountainous terrain during the hours of darkness and under adverse weather conditions, he unhesitatingly volunteered to undertake the evacuation of three seriously wounded Marines. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he fearlessly maneuvered his aircraft toward the small landing site. The approach and landing necessitated an extremely slow speed let down through a dense haze with no radio or navigational aids available for assistance. After successfully negotiating the landing and supervising the rapid loading of the casualties onto the helicopter, he attempted the return flight. Fearlessly guiding the aircraft over the treacherous terrain, he expeditiously accomplished the evacuation. The critically injured Marines were immediately treated at the medical center. Major Buckingham's alertness, efficient action and outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 16350 - 6 December 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Charles W. Budd (MCSN: 0-30617), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 16 July 1952. Captain Budd, leading a flight of four attack aircraft, was assigned a mission of silencing enemy mortars that were inflicting heavy damage and casualties on the FIRST Marine Division. Without hesitation or regard for his own personal safety, he flew his aircraft through intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire in low level flights across the front lines to locate accurately the enemy positions. Captain Budd then rejoined his flight and expertly led them in a series of bombing, napalm and strafing attacks which destroyed three mortar positions and four bunkers, damaging one mortar position and five bunkers, and completely neutralized the enemy fire. Captain Budd's courageous conduct and devotion to duty in the face of intense enemy fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander Naval Forces Far East
General Orders: Serial No. 1815 - 5 March 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Electronicsman First Class William Langford Budlong (NSN: 3566956), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as a Member of a Patrol Plane Crew in Patrol Squadron FORTY-SEVEN (VP-47), during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, from 2 July to 25 December 1950. Completing thirty-five combat missions during this period, he participated in daring strikes against the enemy in the face of imminent hostile anti-aircraft fire and aerial opposition. By his outstanding skill, courage and loyal devotion to duty throughout, he contributed materially to the success of his squadron and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 10568 - 30 June 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Robert H. Buettner (MCSN: 0-24147), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a member of a Marine All-Weather Fighter Squadron in Korea. On 19 March 1953, Major Buettner led a flight of Marine jet night fighters on an escort mission for a massed flight of United States Air Force medium bombers. As the flight approached the target area, he was informed that hostile interceptors were in the area and immediately deployed his flight to meet the enemy. Because of his skillful tactics the attackers were forced to turn back and the bombers were allowed to continue to strike the enemy unmolested. The outstanding aggressiveness displayed by Major Buettner on this and other escort missions, while under constant threat of attack by numerically superior jet interceptors, was a major factor in the success of massed bombing raids on major installations deep in enemy territory. His courageous conduct, exemplary leadership and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 3035 - 10 April 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Ernest A. Buford, Jr. (MCSN: 0-21281), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a pilot attached to a Marine Aircraft Group from 29 November 1950 to 15 December 1950. Captain Buford successfully completed his first through thirty-fifth combat mission in support of our ground forces, destroying and inflicting great damage to concentrations of North Korean vehicles, material and personnel. By his airmanship and devotion to duty in the face of enemy anti-aircraft fire, he contributed materially to the success of our troops. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial No. 49 - 13 January 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade James G. Bumstead (NSN: 0-447159), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in the Korean Theater while serving with Fighter Squadron One Hundred Fourteen (VF-114), during the period from 5 August to 17 October 1950. As Section Leader, piloting a Corsair Fighter Plane, he participated in thirty-five missions over enemy territory.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Technical Sergeant Truman G. Bunce (MCSN: 319841), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving as a Pilot attached to Marine Fighter Squadron Two Hundred Fourteen (VMF-214) during a close air support mission in the city of Seoul, Korea, on 24 September 1950. Technical Sergeant Bunce, as a wingman, flying at minimum altitudes over this heavily-fortified city, and at great personal danger, remained over the area despite intense and accurate anti-aircraft and small arms fire, successfully and effectively conducted rocketing and strafing attacks on enemy positions and scored a direct hit with a 500-pound bomb upon an enemy tank, destroying it completely. His alertness, efficient actions, and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Technical Sergeant Truman G. Bunce (MCSN: 319841), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flights as a Pilot attached to Marine Fighter Squadron Two Hundred Fourteen (VMF-214), from 3 November 1950 through 28 January 1951. Technical Sergeant Bunce successfully completed his thirty-sixth through seventieth combat mission in support of our ground forces, destroying and inflicting great damage to concentrations of North Korean vehicles, material and personnel. By his airmanship and devotion to duty in the face of enemy anti-aircraft fire, he contributed materially to the success of our troops. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander Naval Forces Far East
General Orders: Serial No. 1815 - 5 March 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Robert G. Bunch (NSN: 3830658), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as a Member of a Patrol Plane Crew in Patrol Squadron FORTY-SEVEN (VP-47), during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, from 2 July to 25 December 1950. Completing thirty-five combat missions during this period, he participated in daring strikes against the enemy in the face of imminent hostile anti-aircraft fire and aerial opposition. By his outstanding skill, courage and loyal devotion to duty throughout, he contributed materially to the success of his squadron and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 4509 - 12 April 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Captain Byron McQuady Burbage (MCSN: 0-27228), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 24 July 1951. Captain Burbage was the flight leader of a division of four F4U's assigned the mission of destroying a large group of enemy artillery positions at the town of Sohao-ri that had been shelling the friendly island of Sho-to. Despite the intense enemy ground fire, Captain Burbage led his flight in a series of expertly executed runs and personally scored a direct hit on one artillery position with a five hundred pound bomb. He then located the other gun positions in the area and led his division in repeated attacks on them. Captain Burbage pressed his runs to extremely low altitudes and effectively destroyed or damaged these positions with strafing and rocket attacks. It was on one of these runs that his plane was struck by the intense enemy ground fire and it was seen to roll over and crash into the ground. Captain Burbage's courageous leadership, efficient action and fearless devotion to duty in this action, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Heroes U.S. Marine Corps 1861-1955 (Jane Blakeney)
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Carroll B. Burch (MCSN: 0-29742), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of a Marine Fighter Squadron in Korea. On 26 April 1953, Captain Burch led four jet fighter-bombers on a close air support mission against heavily defended batteries of enemy mortars and automatic weapons then inflicting heavy damage on elements of the FIRST Marine Division. Skillfully maneuvering his flight into an advantageous position, Captain Burch successfully led all four aircraft in a daring attack, through intense and accurate enemy anti-aircraft fire, repeatedly pressing attacks until all ordnance was expended. Scoring several direct hits with his own bombs, he completely sealed four caves and seriously damaged six mortar positions. Captain Burch's outstanding accuracy in delivering his own attack and his exemplary leadership in directing the flight, were largely responsible for the success of the mission and the destruction of vital enemy positions. His courageous conduct, superb airmanship and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Airman Second Class Francis P. Burdelak for extraordinary and meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight over enemy-held North Korea on 18 November 1952. Flying as Gunner of a B-26 type aircraft, 17th Bombardment Wing (Light), Fifth Air Force, engaged in a night interdiction bomber stream mission, Airman Burdelak displayed outstanding airmanship and skill. In spite of sub-marginal weather and obscured visibility, he quickly located the pre-briefed target, an enemy arsenal, in the vicinity of Haeju, Korea. Airman Burdelak immediately notified the rest of the crew to begin the bombing attack and then assisted the Pilot in making the attack, which resulted in eight very large blue-white secondary explosions. While in the target area, Airman Burdelak was constantly exposed to fire from enemy automatic weapons and the ever-present threat of attack by enemy aircraft. As a result of this highly successful mission, vital enemy munitions and supplies, and a vital enemy arsenal were destroyed. By his high personal courage, outstanding ability and devotion to duty, Airman Burdelak brought great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial 12266 - 31 December 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Charles H. Burgans, Jr. (MCSN: 0-39828), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a pilot attached to a Marine Fighter Squadron, from 6 November 1950 to 1 February 1951. First Lieutenant Burgans successfully completed his first through thirty-fifth combat mission against the enemy over Korea, where enemy fire was either received or expected. By his skillful airmanship, he inflicted great damage on concentrations of enemy vehicles, material and personnel. First Lieutenant Burgans' conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders: Serial No. 1071 - 17 November 1950
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade [then Ensign] William L. Burgess, Jr. (NSN: 506161), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving with Fighter Squadron Fifty-Four (VF-54), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Korean Theater from 3 July to 30 September 1950. As pilot of a fighter plane he participated in thirty-five strike missions over enemy territory.
Commander 7th Fleet
Serial 457 - February 27, 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign William F. Burke (NSN: 0-529254), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Pilot of Fighter Squadron Seven Hundred Eighty-Three (VF-783) attached to Carrier Air Group 102 and serving aboard the U.S.S. Bon Homme Richard (CVA-31). On 27 September 1951, Ensign Burke, as a member of a flight assigned to attack enemy rail bridges in the vicinity of Puckchang in hostile enemy-held Communist North Korean territory, inflicted heavy and serious damage upon enemy rail installations. In attacks on three bridges in this area, Ensign Burke, with deadly bombing accuracy and in the face of concentrated enemy anti-aircraft fire, succeeded in destroying two spans and tearing up the approaches of one bridge by dropping three bombs directly on the target, and scoring three direct hits on two other bridges and seriously damaging the bridges and approaches. In further attacks against supply installations, Ensign Burke scored a direct bomb hit on an enemy warehouse and caused numerous fires to other supply buildings. Ensign Burke's plane sustained hits from enemy fire in these attacks. He deprived the enemy for the further use of sorely-needed rail installations and supply facilities. His devotion to duty was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel John R. Burnett (MCSN: 0-6341), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea. Lieutenant Colonel Burnett, serving as Commanding Officer of a Marine All Weather Fighter Squadron, was engaged in a night intruder mission along a main supply route over the eastern sector of North Korea on the night of 6 April 1952. After Lieutenant Colonel Burnett had established radio contact with his flare plane, he received a report that several trucks had been seen entering a nearby small village. With full knowledge of the numerous anti-aircraft positions in the immediate vicinity, Lieutenant Colonel Burnett ordered his flare plane to illuminate the area. Lieutenant Colonel Burnett then initiated a napalm and bombing attack on the village in which the trucks were seen to disappear. After five runs were completed under extremely hazardous conditions, including not only those of enemy fire but of restricted visibility, Lieutenant Colonel Burnett retired from the area, leaving five buildings destroyed and burning. As he proceeded south along the supply route, Lieutenant Colonel Burnett noticed the headlights of a number of trucks on the road below him. As soon as a flare had been dropped, he executed six strafing runs, pouring over five hundred rounds of twenty millimeter ammunitions into the trucks, thereby further hampering the enemy's supply effort. Lieutenant Colonel Burnett's alertness, superb airmanship and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Heroes U.Ss. Marine Corps 1861-1955 (Jane Blakeney)
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Philip R. Burnham (MCSN: 0-49361), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving as a pilot attached to a Marine Fighter Squadron in Korea. On 27 September 1951, First Lieutenant Burnham, in response to an urgent call for close air support took off with his flight from a forward air base. Immediately upon arriving in the target area, First Lieutenant Burnham located the flashes of enemy artillery pieces. These weapons, strategically concealed in a small village in the path of our advance, were firing into friendly forces inflicting heavy casualties. Despite low clouds and conditions of reduced visibility, First Lieutenant Burnham, by his able leadership, positioned his flight as to most advantageously strike his objective. Notwithstanding the heavy and accurate automatic fire directed at the planes, he initiated his attacks. In the course of his repeated attacks, First Lieutenant Burnham's plane was hit several times but with utter disregard for his own personal safety, he continued to press home his attacks until his mission was accomplished. As a direct result of his outstanding leadership and expert airmanship, three enemy field pieces were destroyed, one enemy supply dump was set afire, several enemy troops were killed and the fire being received by friendly forces was silenced. First Lieutenant Burnham's skillful flying and fearless devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters: Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders No. 8573 - 30 May 1953
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Joseph E. Burns (MCSN: 0-29193), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight with a Marine All Weather Fighter Squadron in Korea on 27 October 1952. While escorting a flight of Air Force light bombers engaged in night attacks against heavily defended enemy railroad facilities, Captain Burns observed concentrated anti-aircraft fire bursting with increasing accuracy around the flight. With utter disregard for hazards imposed by precipitous terrain and restricted visibility, he immediately executed a daring low level bombing and strafing assault on the hostile weapons, thus silencing the enemy fire and causing large secondary explosions. After the bombing aircraft had been assured of their safe withdrawal, he voluntarily remained alone deep in hostile territory to continue the attack. By this action he succeeded in demolishing several railroad cars with direct bomb hits. Captain Burns' outstanding courage, aggressiveness and exceptional bombing accuracy were directly instrumental in the protection of the light bombers and in addition, aided substantially to the destruction of vital supplies destined for the enemy front line forces. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Heroes U.S. Marine Corps 1861-1955 (Jane Blakeney)
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Alvin W. Burri (MCSN: 0-48881), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 22 April 1951. Serving as an observer with a Marine Observation Squadron, First Lieutenant Burri was flying on a reconnaissance mission over enemy lines, when he located a large enemy force preparing to ambush advancing friendly ground forces. Realizing the danger to the friendly troops, he courageously made a pass over the enemy at an extremely low altitude to mark the position with smoke grenades, although his slow, vulnerable aircraft was immediately subjected to withering enemy anti-aircraft fire, causing extensive damage. In order to insure that the friendly troops were definitely aware of the danger ahead of them, he then flew again through the heavy enemy fire to drop a warning message, pin-pointing the enemy ambush. First Lieutenant Burri's efficient action and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Heroes U.S. Marine Corps 1861-1955 (Jane Blakeney)
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Alvin W. Burri (MCSN: 0-48881), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea on 28 June 1951. Serving as an aerial observer, First Lieutenant Burri volunteered to fly in a small unarmed aircraft in search of a pilot downed in enemy territory. Despite the fact that the area was well beyond normal operating distance of his aircraft, he courageously flew to it and located the pilot. Although his aircraft was hit many times by enemy small arms fire, he with complete disregard for his personal safety, remained in the area until an accompanying helicopter had picked up the pilot and carried him back to friendly lines. First Lieutenant Burri's efficient actions and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain James M. Burris (MCSN: 0-17177), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a Pilot attached to a Marine All Weather Fighter Squadron from 14 August 1950 to 29 November 1950. Captain Burris successfully completed his first through thirty-fifth combat mission against the enemy in Korea. Most of the flights were at night, deep into enemy territory, and anti-aircraft fire was either received or expected. His actions greatly hampered the movements of enemy vehicular traffic to the front lines. Captain Burris' skillful airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commander 7th Fleet
General Orders No. 49 - 13 January 1950
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Kenneth A. Burrows (NSN: 0-496500), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the Korean Theater while serving with Fighter Squadron One Hundred Thirteen (VF-113), embarked in U.S.S. Philippine Sea (CV-47), during the period from 5 August to 19 October 1950. As Section Leader, piloting a Fighter Plane he participated in thirty-five strike missions of enemy territory.
General Orders: Heroes U.S. Marine Corps 1861-1955 (Jane Blakeney)
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Robert Bury (MCSN: 0-30831), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flights against the enemy in Korea while serving with a Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron on 29 April 1953. Serving as a helicopter pilot, Captain Bury displayed exceptional courage, professional skill and devotion to duty. He fearlessly volunteered to fly a night evacuation flight to transfer two critically wounded Marines from a combat area airfield to the hospital ship. With prior knowledge that the Flight would take place over mountainous terrain during the hours of darkness under adverse weather conditions, he expressed complete disregard for his personal safety and flew to the airfield and skillfully effected a landing on the pick up site. After the two men were loaded aboard, he maneuvered his helicopter toward the hospital ship at extremely slow speeds through thick haze and rain with no navigational aids for assistance. After delivering the two stricken Marines, the weather had become so adverse that it was impossible to complete his return trip and he was forced to land at an intermediate airfield. His gallant and courageous actions made it possible for the two seriously wounded Marines to receive the best available medical care and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Headquarters, Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
General Orders: Serial No. 2206 - 5 June 1951
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Donald S. Bush (MCSN: 0-7010), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights over enemy territory from 27 November 1950 to 3 December 1950. Major Bush while serving as a Pilot with the FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing Photographic Unit successfully completed his 31st to 35th combat photographic missions against the enemy over Korea. During this period he flew photographic coverage of roads and enemy supply routes along the Manchurian border where heavy anti-aircraft fire was received. His skilled airmanship and devotion to duty contributed materially to the success of our ground forces during this critical period. His actions throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Heroes U.S. Marine Corps 1861-1955 (Jane Blakeney)
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Elwood D. Bush (MCSN: 0-22431), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy on 6 July 1951. Captain Bush, as leader of a two-aircraft flight was directed to work with an airborne controller near Kumgorg, Korea. Leading the attack, Captain Bush served a direct hit on a main enemy supply route, stopping the flow of vital materials to the enemy's front lines. Vehicles, troops and supplies were then sighted and Captain Bush in the face of intense enemy automatic weapons fire carried his attacks to minimum altitude. Although the aircraft was damaged by enemy fire, Captain Bush fearlessly continued the attack until his ammunition was exhausted. The airborne controller confirmed three vehicles damaged, fifteen enemy casualties, seven buildings destroyed and several fires started. Captain Bush's courageous action and outstanding airmanship dealt a damaging blow to the enemy. His aggressiveness and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Heroes U.S. Marine Corps 1861-1955 (Jane Blakeney)
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Herman L. Bushong, Jr. (MCSN: 0-30832), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea. On 18 February 1952, Captain Bushong successfully photographed an enemy airfield, railroad installations and the town of Chongson-ni. The nature of the photographic coverage required him to maintain a straight course and a constant altitude while over the target. Intense anti-aircraft fire was encountered causing damage to both his aircraft and that of Captain Shupe flying photographic escort, yet Captain Bushong continued on his mission without the benefit of evasive action, displaying complete disregard for his own personal safety and successfully completed the mission. His determination and courageous action materially aided the United Nations Forces in planning future action against the enemy. Captain Bushong's skillful airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Paul A. Butler, First Lieutenant, United States Air Force, awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross while a Navigator/ Bombardier of a B-26 attack bomber on an intruder mission the night of 11 March 1952 to attack targets and obtain reconnaissance on the enemy's main supply routes between Sunan and Sinanju, Korea, First Lieutenant Butler distinguished himself by extraordinary achievement and demonstrated outstanding airmanship and superior navigational ability in directing his aircraft on this armed reconnaissance mission. Sighting two enemy locomotives and twenty boxcars, he immediately directed the pilot on a series of successful bombing and low level strafing runs on this lucrative target. Despite the intense enemy anti-aircraft fire in the target area, these aggressive attacks were pressed until one locomotive and one box car were enveloped in flames and the other locomotive was heavily damaged. This remarkably successful effort denied the enemy the use of essential supplies and equipment. By his outstanding courage and ability, Lieutenant Butler has brought great credit upon himself, his organization and the United States Air Force.