AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  F-40

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Second Lieutenant William H. Slattery for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a F-40 type aircraft. While on a fighter sweep over the *** ***, 24 June 1943, the formation in which Lieutenant Slattery was flying was attacked by fifteen ME-109's. Turning into the first flight of six enemy planes, Lieutenant Slattery succeeded in dispersing five of them. In this action, the sixth enemy aircraft secured an advantageous position, but displaying outstanding skill, Lieutenant Slattery outmaneuvered the ME-109 and sent it crashing into the sea. Observing a crippled F-40 trying to elude two ME-109's, this officer went to the aid of his comrade and drove off these two enemy fighters. Lieutenant Slattery has participated in forty-eight combat missions during which time he has destroyed three enemy planes. His unfailing devotion to duty and personal resourcefulness have upheld the highest traditions of the Army Air Forces.