(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Major (Air Corps) Willard Russell Gilbert (ASN: 0-23897), United States Army Air Forces, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as Operations Officer, 71st Tactical Reconnaissance Group, FIFTH Air Force, during World War II. The skillful and zealous manner in which he has sought out the enemy and destroyed him, his devotion to duty and courage under all conditions serve as an inspiration to his fellow flyers. His actions on all these occasions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.