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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 Lieutenant Colonel (Air Corps), [then Major] Gerald J. Dix (ASN: 0-427476), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the EIGHTH Air Force, from 27 September 1943 to 8 June 1944. Piloting a fighter type aircraft, Colonel Dix participated in many daring escort and attack missions against enemy installations in Continental Europe. Amidst the tension and excitement of D-Day, and under extreme weather conditions, Colonel Dix led his group on the day’s initial strafing mission against enemy supply lines. Repeating this performance at dusk with a formation of twelve aircraft, he sighted and attacked fifteen JU-87 dive bombers. Directing his fighters with expert skill, the entire formation was shot down before they could reach the invasion coast. Colonel Dix destroyed one and shared in the destruction of another. The superior airmanship and aggressive combat tactics consistently displayed by Colonel Dix throughout this period contributed immeasurably to the ultimate defeat of the enemy.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Major (Air Corps)

    Division:

    8th Air Force

    Action Date:

    World War II
    Headquarters, VIII Fighter Command, General Orders No. 5 (January 28, 1944)

    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 Major (Air Corps) Gerald J. Dix (ASN: 0-427476), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight during World War II. Major Dix has accomplished fifty fighter combat missions, or the equivalent thereof, over enemy occupied Continental Europe. The skillful and zealous manner in which Major Dix has sought out the enemy and engaged him in aerial combat, 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.