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) Donald Edison Hillman (ASN: 0-418131), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a P-47 Fighter Pilot of the 365th Fighter Squadron, NINTH Air Force, in an armed reconnaissance mission in the European Theater of Operations on 25 June 1944. While approaching the target area Major Hillman, upon hearing a call from another squadron, led his formation to the attack. In the encounter which ensued Major Hillman became separated from his squadron, and, while pursing an enemy aircraft he was attacked by a flight of Messerschmitt planes. Demonstrating undaunted bravery and keen aerial skill in the face of grave obstacles he continued the attack, and, although greatly outnumbered and flying at low altitude over a strongly fortified area, Major Hillman succeeded in destroying two enemy aircraft and driving away the remainder. His gallant courage and unstinting devotion to duty under the most trying of circumstances are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Army Air Forces.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Lieutenant Colonel (Air Corps) Donald Edison Hillman (ASN: 0-418131), 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 as a P-47 Fighter Pilot of the 365th Fighter Group, NINTH Air Force, in action against the enemy in aerial combat in the European Theater of Operations during World War II. The skillful and zealous manner in which he has sought out the enemy and destroyed him, 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.