Navy Federal Credit Union

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Gordon R. McFeely (MCSN: 292648), United States Marine Corps, was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron 241 (VMSB-241)

    Regiment:

    Battle of Midway

    Action Date:

    June 4 & 5, 1942

    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 311 (February 1943)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Sergeant Gordon R. McFeely (McFeeley) (MCSN: 292648), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Radioman-Gunner in Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron TWO HUNDRED FORTY-ONE (VMSB-241), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle of Midway, 4 and 5 June 1942. In a determined attack against the invading fleet, Private McFeely, as rear-seat machine gunner, maintained effective fire in the face of overwhelming enemy fighter opposition and fierce anti-aircraft barrage. Although painfully wounded in this action, he succeeded in shooting down one Japanese fighter plane. Forced down at sea, following this attack, Private McFeely remained afloat in his rubber life boat until 6 June, when a rescue was made by a Navy Patrol Plane. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.