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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 First Lieutenant Lawrence V. Mars (ASN: 0-749031), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a P-38 Fighter Airplane of the 37th Fighter Squadron, 14th Fighter Group, FIFTEENTH Air Force. On 14 February 1944, Lieutenant Mars led his flight as escort to heavy bombers on a mission against a vital enemy communications center in Italy. As the bombers were turning from the target after a successful bombing run, Lieutenant Mars observed a crippled bomber under attack by enemy fighters, and as his comrades dove to intercept the hostile aircraft, he noticed four enemy fighters preparing to attack his fellow pilots. Realizing the imminent danger of his comrades, with complete disregard for the overwhelming odds, Lieutenant Mars turned into the enemy planes, destroyed the leader and forced the remainder to break off their attack. Under his protective cover, the crippled bomber and his comrades were able to return safely to base without damage. By his outstanding leadership, combat proficiency and devotion to duty, as evidenced throughout over forty-five successful missions against the enemy, Lieutenant Mars has reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States of America.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Air Corps)

    Batallion:

    37th Fighter Squadron

    Regiment:

    14th Fighter Group

    Division:

    15th Air Force

    Action Date:

    April 15, 1944
    Headquarters, 15th Air Force, General Orders No. 2486 (August 11, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Lawrence V. Mars (ASN: 0-749031), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action as Pilot of a P-38 Fighter Airplane of the 37th Fighter Squadron, 14th Fighter Group, FIFTEENTH Air Force. On 15 April 1944, First Lieutenant Mars participated as escort to heavy bombers attacking strategic enemy installations in Rumania. Approaching the target, observing a flight of hostile ships preparing to intercept the bomber formation, Lieutenant Mars immediately turned to engage the enemy ships. In the ensuing engagement, while driving the hostile planes from the area, his aircraft was severely damaged, rending one engine inoperative. Forced to drop back and join the bomber formation, he observed two enemy aircraft approaching the bombers. Despite the crippled condition of his aircraft, with complete disregard for his personal safety, he attacked the enemy fighters, and, in the aerial battle that followed, displaying outstanding aggressiveness and combat skill, he successfully destroyed one and drove the other from the bombers. Through his effective protective cover, the bombers were thus enabled to complete their mission without further damage. Returning to base alone after sustaining further damages, he skillfully brought his stricken ship through for a safe landing. By his conspicuous courage, combat proficiency and devotion to duty, as evidenced throughout over fifty-six successful missions against the enemy, Lieutenant Mars has reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.