During World War II Fred Dungan became a U.S. Navy ACE, credited with shooting down seven enemy aircraft in aerial combat.
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During World War II Fred Dungan became a U.S. Navy ACE, credited with shooting down seven enemy aircraft in aerial combat.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Fred Leroy Dungan, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TWO (VF-2), attached to the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), in the vicinity of Bonin Island on 4 July 1944. While participating in a mission over enemy territory, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Dungan was attacked by several float fighter planes and, although alone and outnumbered many times, he did not break away from the pursuing planes, but remained with them until another carrier-based fighter plane came to his assistance. He then turned into the enemy and, by the exercise of intelligence, courage and brilliant tactical skill, he shot down four of the attacking enemy planes. Although severely wounded in the left shoulder during the battle, he brought his own plane safely home, making a successful carrier landing. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.