Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Second Lieutenant Alymer Russel Barnum (MCSN: 0-32732), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in an attack against enemy shipping on 1 March 1945, in the vicinity of Nansei Shoto. Second Lieutenant Barnum skillfully and courageously, in the face of enemy anti-aircraft fire, piloted his plane in an attack on an enemy freight transport scoring a direct bomb hit which contributed to the sinking of the enemy vessel immediately after the attack. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Captain

    Batallion:

    Marine Fighter Squadron

    Action Date:

    August 4, 1951
    Commanding General 1st Marine Aircraft Wing: Serial: 11602 (December 11, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Alymer Russel Barnum (MCSN: 0-32732), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea while serving as a pilot attached to a Marine Fighter Squadron. On 4 August 1951, Captain Barnum led a flight in close support of United Nations ground troops. Working in conjunction with an airborne controller, Captain Barnum’s flight was directed to a ridge containing fifty dug-in enemy troops in bunkers. Despite intense fire from the enemy’s positions and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Captain Barnum repeatedly pressed home his attacks until the bunkers and many enemy troops had been destroyed. Captain Barnum then led his flight to an enemy supply area and again, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, pressed home his attacks until two stores of vital supplies were set afire. Captain Barnum’s skillful flying and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.