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 First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Wesley Alvin Poore (ASN: ASN: 0-698226), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in action as Navigator of a B-24 type aircraft of the 743d Bombardment Squadron, 455th Bombardment Group, FIFTEENTH Air Force, in action over vital strategic enemy installations on 18 May 1944. Prior to reaching the target, intense enemy fighter action and accurate antiaircraft fire rendered one of the engines of his aircraft useless, thus forcing it to drop from the protection of the formation. Despite the crippled condition of his aircraft, he skillfully guided the pilot to the target for a successful lone bombing run. Immediately upon releasing the bombs, severe damage from aggressive fighter action forced the aircraft to lose altitude rapidly. When the order to abandon aircraft was given, Lieutenant Poore observed one of the crew members with a damaged parachute. With characteristic selflessness, Lieutenant Poore exchanged his own parachute for the damaged one. After being assured that all members had parachuted to safety, Lieutenant Poore strapped the damaged parachute to his harness and jumped from the plane. By manipulating the shrouds with his hands, he was able to safely descend to the ground. Lieutenant Poore’s exemplary actions have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States of America.