Soldiers

Contributed by Joy Fischer for use by USGenWeb December 21, 2007

O'Neill, Ralph A. 1918

WWI 147th Aero Squadron

Distinguished Service Cross Citation:

Ralph A. O'Neill, first lieutenant, Air Service, pilot, 147th Aero Squadron.

For extraordinary heroism in action near Chateau-Thierry, France, July 2, 1918.Lieut. O'Neill and four other pilots attacked 12 enemy battle planes. In a violent battle within the enemy's lines they brought down three German planes,one of which was credited to Lieut. O'Neill.

A bronze oak leaf is awarded to Lieut. O'Neill for the following act of extraordinary heroism in action: On July 5, 1918, he led three other pilots in battle against eight German pursuit planes near Chateau-Thierry, France. He attacked the leader, opening lire at about 150 yards, and closing up to 30 yards range. After a quick and decisive fight the enemy aircraft fell in flames. He then turned on throe other machines that were attacking him from the rear and brought one of them down. The other five enemy planes were driven away.

Another bronze oak leaf is awarded him for the following act of extraordinary heroism in action near Fresnes, France, July 24, 1918: He with four other pilots engaged 12 enemy planes discovered hiding in the sun. Leading the way to an advantageous position, by a series of bold and skillful maneuvers he shot down the leader of the hostile formation. The other German planes then, closed in on him, but he climbed to a position of vantage above them and returned to the fight and drove down another plane. In this encounter he not only defeated his opponents in spite of overwhelming odds against him, but also enabled the reconnaissance plane to carry on its work unmolested. Residence at appointment: 21S Sonorita Street, Nogales, Ariz.

Additional Comments: Extracted from: CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR THE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CROSS AND THE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL ISSUED BY THE WAR DEPARTMENT Since April 6, 1917 Up to and including General Orders, No. 126, War Department, November 11, 1919 COMPILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE ADJUTANT GENERAL OF THE ARMY WASHINGTON GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 1920

 

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