AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  WWII
MODEL:  B-17

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Staff Sergeant Donald E. Schaefer, 612th Bombardment Squad, 401 Bombardment Group (H), for extraordinary achievement while serving as Ball Turret Gunner of a B-17 airplane on a number of bombardment missions over enemy-occupied Continental Europe. Displaying great courage and skill, Sergeant Schaefer, fighting from his gun position, has warded off many enemy attacks and has materially aided in the success of each of these missions. The courage, coolness and skill displayed by Sergeant Schaefer on all these occasions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.