AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  WWII
MODEL:  B-25

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Joseph F. Longo, Jr., for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Bombardier of a B-25 type aircraft. On 6 July 1944, Lieutenant Longo flew as Lead Bombardier of a thirty-six-plane formation attacking the Todt headquarters and warehouse at Poretta Terme, Italy. Despite intense anti-aircraft fire which damaged nine planes upon the approach to the target, Lieutenant Longo directed his Pilot on a perfect run over the objective. With all bombers releasing on his sightings, a devastating bomb pattern covered the target area, resulting in great destruction and damage to these vital installations. On fifty combat missions, his outstanding proficiency and steadfast devotion to duty have reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.