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 Oscar M. Bate, Jr. (MCSN: 0-10978), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in operations against the enemy in the Philippine Islands Area from 26 January 1945 to 5 February 1945. Captain Bate completed twenty flights in a combat area where enemy anti-aircraft fire was expected to be effective or where enemy aircraft patrols usually occurred and on one or more of these missions such enemy opposition was encountered. His conduct throughout has distinguished him among those performing duties of the same character.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Distinguished Flying Cross
Service:
United States Marine CorpsRank:
First LieutenantRegiment:
Marine Aircraft Group 14Division:
1st Marine Aircraft WingAction Date:
October 9, 1942 – January 15, 1943
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Oscar M. Bate, Jr. (MCSN: 0-10978), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in attacks against Japanese naval and air forces in the Solomon Islands area during the period from 9 October 1942 to 15 January 1943. Lieutenant Bate repeatedly carried out attacks at extreme ranges from his base and from which his return was doubtful because of probable fuel exhaustion. Through his outstanding ability and aggressive skill he shot down three enemy planes even though flying a tail position. Lieutenant Bate, through his courageous actions and superb airmanship, contributed greatly to the destruction of sixty-eight enemy planes by the eight plane division with which he was serving. His conduct throughout the series of enemy engagements was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.