AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  WWII
MODEL:  P-47

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Jacob L. Cooper for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy. On 25 January 1945, while leading a squadron in a close support of the ground forces, Lieutenant Cooper attacked an enemy truck and tank column with telling effects. Heedless of intense anti-aircraft fire and demonstrating superior airmanship and aggressiveness, Lieutenant Cooper returned alone to make numerous strafing passes until his ammunition was exhausted, inflicting additional damage on vital enemy equipment. His courageous action and resourceful leadership reflect great credit upon himself and his organization.