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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant William N. John for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy. On 6 April 1945, Lieutenant John led his squadron of Thunderbolts on an armed reconnaissance mission in the vicinity of Illsheim, Germany. Upon sighting an active airdrome with enemy aircraft parked in the dispersal areas, Lieutenant John led his flight through intense, light anti-aircraft fire to secure near hits with incendiary frag clusters, severely damaging nine ME-109's. In bombing and strafing attacks three hangers, four buildings and three more ME-109's were destroyed. Continuing on the reconnaissance the squadron destroyed four motor transport and one staff car. The initiative and tactical ability demonstrated by Lieutenant John reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed forces of the United States.