Nelson, Lucas Jasper
Lamero/Kentucky/United States, February 13th, 1917 -
December 10th, 1996)
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August 20th, 1944; Lieutenant, Bombing Squadron 1 (VB-1), U.S. Navy
"For extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing
Squadron ONE (VB-1), attached to the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CVL-10), in
action against major units of the Japanese Fleet during the First
Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June 1944. Flying at extreme range
from base to participate in a daring strike on a hostile aircraft
carrier, Lieutenant Nelson fought his plane gallantly against enemy
intercepting aircraft and, going in low despite the intense hostile
anti-aircraft fire, launched a brilliantly executed dive-bombing attack
which resulted in the scoring of three direct and two probable hits on
the enemy warship. With his fuel exhausted, he succeeded in making a
safe water landing at night and was later rescued by a friendly
destroyer. His great personal valor and aggressive fighting spirit in
the fulfillment of a hazardous mission reflect the highest credit upon
Lieutenant Nelson and the United States Naval Service."
(Source: Commander Fast Carrier Task Force: Serial 0439)
(Image: US Navy)
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