AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  WWII
MODEL:  B-29

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Sergeant Malen Powell, Air Corps, United States Army, Right Gunner for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight 26 May 1945 in a night incendiary mission against Tokyo, Japan as a combat crew member of a B-29 aircraft from a base in the Marianas. Sergeant Powell was flying as a pathfinder, reaching the target areas approximately twenty-five minutes before the main striking force. Due to the combat crew’s early arrival, they encountered intense flak and fighter opposition. Shortly after bombs away, they were caught in approximately fourteen searchlights and held for twenty-five minutes. During this time, night fighters pressed home aggressive attacks. The attacks of six interceptors were repulsed. The alertness and calm determination with which Sergeant Powell and the other veterans of repeated assaults against the Japanese mainland performed their duties contributed materially to the success of this mission and reflect great credit on Sergeant Powell, the other combat crew veterans and the Army Air Force.