AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Korea
MODEL:  B0-26

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Airman Second Class Thomas B. Mitchell for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight over enemy-held North Korea on 22 June 1952. Flying as Gunner of a B-26 type aircraft, engaged in a night interdiction mission, Airman Mitchell displayed outstanding airmanship and skill. In the vicinity of Soyondong, Korea, Airman Mitchell sighted a large convoy of enemy vehicles. Numerous bombing attacks were made which resulted in the destruction of five enemy vehicles. Airman Mitchell then assisted in guiding the Pilot on a series of low-level strafing passes which caused additional explosions. These attacks were pressed despite intense fire from enemy automatic weapons and hazardous mountain terrain and were continued until all ordnance was expended. As a result of this highly successful mission vital enemy supplies and transportation facilities were destroyed. By his high personal courage and devotion to duty, Airman Mitchell brought great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.