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 Captain (Air Corps) William Douglas Whitson, 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 365th Bombardment Squadron, 305th Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission over enemy occupied Continental Europe on 15 May 1943. The aircraft in which Captain Whitson was serving was attacked by a force of enemy fighter airplanes. He was wounded, the bombardier, co-pilot, top-turret gunner, radio operator, and waist gunner were wounded, and the navigator was killed. In spite of the severe damage inflicted on his aircraft and the pains from his wounds, and with complete disregard for his own safety, Captain Whitson courageously continued on to the target, successfully bombed it, and heroically fought his way back to his air base. The courage, skill, and high devotion to duty displayed by this officer on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the armed forces of the United States.