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

Citation:  1.) The Distinguished Flying Cross is awarded to Second Lieutenant William C. Johnson, Army Air Forces, United States Army for extraordinary achievement while serving as Pilot on a bombing mission over Germany, 8 February 1944. Shortly after bombing the target Lieutenant Johnson's aircraft was struck by flak leaving only one engine functioning properly. Unable to keep up with the formation he determined to fly his damaged plane to England. Everything movable was thrown overboard, the ball turret was salvoed and dodging in and out of cloud cover as his only defense against enemy aircraft he successfully evaded opposition and materially aided in the safe return of his plane and its crew. The courage, coolness and flying skill of Lieutenant Johnson on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the armed forces of the United States.