AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  WWII
MODEL:  -

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Staff Sergeant Claude C. Collins, Jr., for extraordinary achievement in aerial flights from 10 January 1945 to 12 March 1945. In the capacity of Armorer Gunner during sustained operational flights against Japanese installations in the Kuriles, Staff Sergeant Collins displayed a high degree of professional skill and initiative. These missions were accomplished in the face of aggressive fighter interception and fire from enemy anti-aircraft batteries. These strikes were flown in land-based aircraft for long over-water distances and under unfavorable weather conditions. The successful results achieved and the outstanding airmanship, courage and devotion to duty displayed by this enlisted man are in keeping with the finest combat traditions of the Army Air Forces.