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 Staff Sergeant Hugh W. Russell (ASN: 39387619), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight, while serving as Tail Gunner of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber of the EIGHTH Air Force, on fifteen bombardment missions over enemy-occupied Continental Europe. Displaying great courage and skill, Staff Sergeant Russell fighting from his gun position has destroyed two enemy airplanes, warded off many enemy attacks, and has materially aided in the success of each of the fifteen missions. The courage, coolness, and skill displayed by Sergeant Russell on all these occasions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.