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 Private David J. Eckholt (ASN: 17039877), United States Army Air Forces, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a member of the Air Crew of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber in the 65th Bombardment Squadron, 43d Bombardment Group (Heavy), FIFTH Air Force, over St. George’s Channel, near Rabaul, New Britain, on 8 December 1942. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private Eckholt, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Private

    Batallion:

    65th Bombardment Squadron

    Regiment:

    43d Bombardment Group (H)

    Division:

    5th Air Force

    Action Date:

    World War II

    Headquarters, 5th Air Force, General Orders No. 205 (September 24, 1943)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Private David J. Eckholt (ASN: 17039877), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as a member of the Air Crew of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber in the 65th Bombardment Squadron, 43d Bombardment Group (Heavy), FIFTH Air Force, in aerial operations in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations, in 1943. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private Eckholt, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.