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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Frank M. Lopes for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a C-47 type aircraft. On 19 September 1944, Lieutenant Lopes flew on a mission to deliver vital military supplies to Allied ground forces operating near Besancon, France. Displaying great courage and superior flying ability, as he skillfully maneuvered his heavily loaded plane at minimum altitude to escape a solid overcast, Lieutenant Lopes reached the designated airfield and effected a perfect landing on the rain-soaked and cratered runway. Successfully completing this hazardous mission during a critical period in the campaign, Lieutenant Lopes’ outstanding proficiency in combat and steadfast devotion to duty have reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.