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) Paul Worlton Vance, United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Pilot of a B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 570th Bombardment Squadron, 390th Bombardment Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in a bombing mission over Germany on 10 October 1943. Lieutenant Vance was seriously and painfully wounded when an antiaircraft fragment partially severed his left leg at the thigh. After administering first aid to himself, Lieutenant Vance remained at his post of duty assisting and advising the co-pilot in the successful execution of the bombing run and during the ret urn journey. Only after all danger of attack by enemy fighters had passed was Lieutenant Vance persuaded to leave his post. The extraordinary heroism, disregard of personal safety, and skill displayed by Lieutenant Vance on this occasion 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.