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

Citation:  1.) The Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a B-17 Pilot, 348th Bomb Squadron, 99th Bombardment Group, on a combat mission to Poggibonsi, Italy on 29 January 1944. On that date, on his 50th combat mission, with a full crew and maximum bomb and fuel load, just before liftoff, the aircraft experienced a sudden explosion. Lieutenant Brandt was able to keep the aircraft straight on the runway and lift it into the air. While attempting to raise the landing gear, he realized the right tire was penetrated by a piece of the steel runway planking. Although the landing gear could not be fully raised, Lieutenant Brandt decided to continue the mission. Arriving at the target, the group was attacked by enemy fighters and intense anti-aircraft artillery. His aircraft was hit in the number 3 engine resulting in loss of power. Lieutenant Brandt was able to control the aircraft to home base and land safely even with an engine gone and a right blown tire. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Brandt reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.