Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Constantine Mitchell (ASN: 0-702138), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as Navigator of a B-25 Mitchell Bomber in the 379th Bombardment Squadron, 310th Bombardment Group (Medium), TWELFTH Air Force, in action on 11 November 1944. Lieutenant Mitchell flew as lead navigator of a twenty-four plane formation attacking a railroad bridge at Cassale Monferrato, Italy. Displaying great courage and superior professional skill, Lieutenant Mitchell guided his pilot over heavily defended enemy territory directly to the initial point. Upon commencement of the bomb run shell fragments from intense anti-aircraft fire heavily damaged his aircraft. Selflessly assisting his bombardier in setting course for a perfect run over the objective in the face of this accurate barrage, Lieutenant Mitchell enabled the bombers to register many direct hits, heavily damaging the bridge, thereby blocking a vital link in enemy communications lines. Drawing away from the target, his pilot ordered the crew to abandon the shattered aircraft and Lieutenant Mitchell parachuted safely behind enemy lines. His gallant devotion to duty and outstanding proficiency in combat reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.

Awards Received

  • Prisoner of War Medal

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Air Corps)

    Division:

    Prisoner of War (Germany)

    Action Date:

    November 11, 1944 – May 1945

    NARA Database: Records of World War II Prisoners of War, created, 1942 – 19930

    First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Constantine Mitchell (ASN: 0-702138), United States Army Air Forces, was captured by German forces after he was shot down on or about November 11, 1944 and was held as a Prisoner of War until his return to U.S. Military Control at the end of hostilities in May 1945.