World War II Medal of Honor recipient. Born in Racine, Wisconsin and served as a Major in the 93rd Bombardment Group (Heavy), 9th Army Air Force, European Theater of Operations, flying B-24 Liberators. He had completed more than his tour of missions and was no longer directly connected with the 93rd Bomb Group. When he heard of the upcoming low level bombing mission against the oil refineries at Ploesti, Romania (Operation Tidal Wave), he volunteered to lead a formation. On August 1, 1943, three miles from the target, his bomber (tail #42-40994; "Hell's Wench") was badly damaged by enemy ground fire and set on fire. More than 230 antiaircraft guns, supported by many barrage balloons, smoke pots and German fighter planes, were in the area of the refineries. Ignoring the fact he was flying above a field suitable for a forced landing, he kept on course. After the bombs were released on the target, the fire in his ship became so intense that it made further progress impossible. The B-24 crashed into the target area, killing all on board. On this mission, fifty-four aircraft never returned; he was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously on October 28, 1943.
World War II Medal of Honor recipient. Born in Racine, Wisconsin and served as a Major in the 93rd Bombardment Group (Heavy), 9th Army Air Force, European Theater of Operations, flying B-24 Liberators. He had completed more than his tour of missions and was no longer directly connected with the 93rd Bomb Group. When he heard of the upcoming low level bombing mission against the oil refineries at Ploesti, Romania (Operation Tidal Wave), he volunteered to lead a formation. On August 1, 1943, three miles from the target, his bomber (tail #42-40994; "Hell's Wench") was badly damaged by enemy ground fire and set on fire. More than 230 antiaircraft guns, supported by many barrage balloons, smoke pots and German fighter planes, were in the area of the refineries. Ignoring the fact he was flying above a field suitable for a forced landing, he kept on course. After the bombs were released on the target, the fire in his ship became so intense that it made further progress impossible. The B-24 crashed into the target area, killing all on board. On this mission, fifty-four aircraft never returned; he was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously on October 28, 1943.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
Inscription
Major, Headquarters, 2nd Bombardment Wing (Heavy), U.S. Army Air Forces
Medal of Honor
Family Members
Other Records
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