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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major (Air Corps) Rudolph E. Flack (ASN: 0-371840), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Squadron Leader and Pilot of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber in the 97th Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, during many aerial flight sin the European and North African Theaters of Operations. On 26 December 1942, Major Flack led his squadron on a high altitude bombing mission over the docks of Bizerte, Tunisia, against heavy flak and fierce fighter opposition. As the formation was leaving the target area, the number two airplane in the element immediately behind Major Flack’s element received a direct hit in the bomb bay and exploded in mid-air, severely damaging the number one and number three airplanes in the same element and forcing them to drop out of formation. Six enemy fighters of the ME-109 type immediately attacked the two crippled airplanes. Major Flack, realizing the grave danger but with utter disregard for personal safety, left the group formation to maneuver closely above the crippled airplanes. This courageous act aided in the destruction of five enemy aircraft and undoubtedly save the two crews from total destruction. The unusual courage and ability shown by Major Flack reflects great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Major (Air Corps)

    Regiment:

    97th Bombardment Group (H)

    Division:

    8th Air Force

    Action Date:

    January 14 – 22, 1943
    Headquarters, V Bombardment Wing, General Orders No. 6 (February 26, 1943)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Air Corps) Rudolph E. Flack (ASN: 0-371840), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while as Pilot of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber in the 97th Bombardment Group (Heavy), 97th Bombardment Group (Heavy), EIGHTH Air Force. Major Flack demonstrated extraordinary skill, gallantry, and leadership over enemy-occupied territory in North Africa during the period 14 January 1943 to 22 January 1943. As commander of his Heavy Bombardment Squadron, and at great risk to his personal safety, Major Flack led two high altitude daylight bombardment missions, both of which resulted in heavy losses to the enemy. By his skill as a pilot and flight leader, despite intense anti-aircraft barrages, Major Flack on each occasion successfully led his flight over the assigned target and accurately bombed important enemy military installations. This was accomplished without the loss of any United States aircraft. Major Flack by his courage and coolness under heavy anti-aircraft fire, his marked ability as pilot and flight leader, has served the armed forces of his country gallantly and well, and h is brave deeds have furthered their aims and ideals. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Flack, 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.