The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade William Earl Brewer, Jr. (NSN: 0-346919), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while participating in an aerial attack on a major unit of the Japanese Fleet in the East China Sea on 7 April 1945. As a Photographic Pilot, he made numerous photographic runs at low altitude through intense, accurate anti-aircraft fire from an enemy battleship, cruiser and numerous destroyers, and later recorded the destruction of the battleship and the cruiser. On the completion of these duties he pressed to close range the strafing of a destroyer, and by aiding in the following of its anti-aircraft fire, contributed to a successful torpedo attack. His skill in taking excellent photographs for exact damage assessment and his courage in the face of enemy fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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Awards Received
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Distinguished Flying Cross
Service:
United States NavyRank:
Lieutenant, Junior GradeAction Date:
February 10 – April 17, 1945
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 Lieutenant, Junior Grade William Earl Brewer, Jr. (NSN: 0-346919), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in operations against the enemy in the vicinity of Tokyo, Iwo Jima, Kyushu and Nansei Shoto. As pilot of a carrier-based fighter plane during the period 10 February 1945 to 17 April 1945, he participated in twenty strikes against enemy shipping, airfields and ground installations, inflicting extensive damage. His skill and courage were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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Distinguished Flying Cross
Service:
United States NavyRank:
Lieutenant, Junior GradeAction Date:
February 16, 1945
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade William Earl Brewer, Jr. (NSN: 0-346919), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy over Honshu, Japan, 16 February 1945. As member of a division of carrier-based fighters protecting a large flight of bombing and torpedo planes in a coordinated attack on a vital aircraft manufacturing plant far inland, he assisted in repelling aggressive enemy fighters encountered throughout this hazardous mission. His skillful airmanship contributed materially to the success of the mission, and his courage was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.