Navy Federal Credit Union

John Penny was one of five members of the Air Crew of Captain Ray Cox’s Flying Fortress Bomber to earn Silver Stars before the were shot down and lost in action on February 3, 1942.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    93d Bombardment Squadron

    Regiment:

    19th Bombardment Group (H)

    Division:

    Far East Air Force

    Action Date:

    World War II

    Headquarters, Far East Air Force, General Orders No. 16 (February 12, 1942)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant John S. Penny (ASN: 17023807), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as a member of the Air Crew of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber in the 93d Bombardment Squadron, 19th Bombardment Group (Heavy), Far East Air Force, in operations in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations, in 1941 and 1942. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Penny, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.