Headquarters, U.S. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders No. 9 (January 24, 1945)
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) Frank Quinn O’Connor (ASN: 0-730584), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Pilot of a P-51 Fighter Airplane in the 356th Fighter Squadron, 354th Fighter Group, NINTH Air Force, in aerial combat against enemy forces on 5 November 1944, in the European Theater of Operations. On this date, while leading a strafing mission on an enemy airdrome, Major O’Connor flew head-long into enemy gun positions in order to silence them or draw their fire and accomplish the safe withdrawal of his flight. His aircraft was severely hit and damaged, exploding a few seconds after he had parachuted to safety. The heroism, coolness, and skill displayed by Major O’Connor on this occasion, and his inspiring leadership through his many missions, reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.