The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Major (Air Corps) Algene Earl Key (ASN: 0-386265), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Pilot of a B-24 Heavy Bomber in the 66th Bombardment Squadron, 44th Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission over enemy occupied continental Europe on 20 December 1942. While en route to the enemy target, the aircraft of which Major Key was a pilot was subjected to a direct nose attack by two enemy aircraft. With great courage and skill he maneuvered his aircraft directly into the path of the approaching enemy, causing them to change their course of attack, with the result that the 20-mm. cannon shell from one of the enemy struck in the rear of the bomber instead of the front cockpit where the results might have been fatal to the aircraft and crew. The explosions inflicted severe damage on the aircraft, mortally wounded the right waist gunner, and slightly wounded the left waist gunner. Despite his desperate situation, Major Key continued his position in the flight to the objective. With complete disregard of his own safety, and with a regard only for the mission entrusted to him, Major Key skillfully maintained his almost uncontrollable aircraft in formation, completed his mission, and returned safely to his home base. His action undoubtedly resulted in saving the lives of his crew and instilled in the men of his command an inspiration that will prove invaluable in future combat missions.