Office of the Department Commander, South West Pacific Command, General Orders No. 2 (February 15, 1942)
(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Major (Medical Corps) Luther Caldwell Heidger (ASN: 0-205275), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Officer with the 19th Bombardment Group (H), FAR EAST Air Forces, in action against enemy forces on 8 December 1941, in the Philippine Islands. Major Heidger braved 150 enemy planes bombing and strafing an airfield to administer first aid to the wounded and saved many lives. His outstanding accomplishments, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Army.