AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  -

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Sergeant Bruce E. Rutledge for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as Radio Gunner of a Scout Bomber plane in Marine Scout Bomber Squadron Two Hundred Thirty Six in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Philippine Islands area from 2 to 15 May 1945. Completing his twentieth mission in an active combat area during this period, Sergeant Rutledge contributed materially to the success of his plane and to the infliction of extensive damage on the enemy. His courage and devotion to duty in the face of hostile anti-aircraft fire and aerial opposition were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.