The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade William Aristhide Bourgeois (NSN: 0-321070), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron SEVENTEEN (VB-17), attached to the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), in action on 19 March 1945. Participating in an attack on major units of the Japanese Fleet in Kure Bay, Japan, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bourgeois dove through extremely intense anti-aircraft fire, scoring a direct hit on an enemy battleship. Recovering from his dive at less than 1,500 feet, he strafed enemy small craft and shore installations while making his retirement. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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Awards Received
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Distinguished Flying Cross
Service:
United States NavyRank:
Lieutenant, Junior GradeAction Date:
February 18 – May 13, 1945
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade William Aristhide Bourgeois (NSN: 0-321070), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in operations against the enemy in the vicinity of Tokyo, Iwo Jima, Kyushu, and the Nansei Shoto. As pilot of a carrier-based dive bomber during the period 18 February 1945 to 13 May 1945, he participated in twenty strikes against enemy shipping, airfields and installations, inflicting extensive damage. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.