The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Thurman M. Geren, United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while serving as Pilot of a B-17 airplane on a bombing mission over Germany, 5 April 1945. On this date prior to reaching the objective, the aircraft which Lieutenant Geren was piloting was attacked by several enemy jet-propelled fighters. The Top Turret Gunner was seriously wounded and severe damage was sustained by the airplane. All trim tab cables were severed, the right aileron and right elevator cables were shot away and all four engines were damaged, forcing the aircraft to leave formation. Lieutenant Geren maintained full left aileron for over two hours until friendly territory was reached. His actions on this occasion were responsible for the return of the crew. The courage, coolness and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Geren reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.