AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  WWII
MODEL:  B-17

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to William A. Hunnewell, First Lieutenant, United States Army, 346th Bomb Sq, 99th Bomb Gp, for extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as pilot of a B-17 type aircraft. On 11 March 1944, Lt Hunnewell participated in a bombing mission against a vitally important rail center in Northern Italy. Over the target, his aircraft suffered mechanical failure to engine and bomb bay doors. Despite the fact that his aircraft was seriously crippled and under determined attacks by enemy fighters, Lt Hunnewell skillfully maneuvered his failing aircraft, keeping it in flight until the bomb bay doors were forced open and the bombs jettisoned. He then brought the aircraft safely back to base without loss of equipment or injury to the crew. By his outstanding leadership, professional skill and devotion to duty, Lt Hunnewell has reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States of America.