The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Winston M. Toomey (ASN: 37297949), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Bombardier on a B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 407th Bombardment Squadron, 92d Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 14 October 1943, against the ball bearing factories, Schweinfurt, Germany. Although badly wounded just before the bomb release point was reached, Staff Sergeant Toomey remained at his post, opened the bomb bay doors, and launched his bombs upon the target. Almost immediately thereafter he died from his wounds. By his bravery and determination, Staff Sergeant Toomey contributed to the successful destruction of the objective. His personal courage and zealous devotion to duty have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 8th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.