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(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Air Corps) Kenneth O’Reilly Dessert (ASN: 0-23730), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a B-24 Liberator Bomber and as Commanding Officer of the 408th Bombardment Squadron, 93d Bombardment Group (Heavy), NINTH Air Force, in aerial operations during the low-level bombing mission against the Oil Refineries at Ploesti, Romania, on 1 August 1943. During a long and hazardous attack against a vital enemy oil installation made at low-altitude by a formation of B-24 type aircraft, he flew through heavy enemy fire against impossible odds. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Dessert, 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

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Major (Air Corps)

    Batallion:

    408th Bombardment Squadron

    Division:

    8th Air Force

    Action Date:

    World War II
    United States Military Academy Register of Graduates

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Major (Air Corps) Kenneth O’Reilly Dessert (ASN: 0-23730), United States Army Air Forces, was awarded a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as Commanding Officer, 408th Bombardment Squadron, EIGHTH Air Force, during World War II. His devotion to duty and courage under all conditions serve as an inspiration to his fellow flyers. His actions on all these occasions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Major (Air Corps)

    Batallion:

    408th Bombardment Squadron

    Division:

    8th Air Force

    Action Date:

    World War II
    United States Military Academy Register of Graduates

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Major (Air Corps) Kenneth O’Reilly Dessert (ASN: 0-23730), United States Army Air Forces, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as Commanding Officer, 408th Bombardment Squadron, EIGHTH Air Force, during World War II. His devotion to duty and courage under all conditions serve as an inspiration to his fellow flyers. His actions on all these occasions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.