(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Thomas J. Lees, Jr. (ASN: 0-733442), United States Army Air Forces, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving with the EIGHTH Air Force 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.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Thomas J. Lees, Jr. (ASN: 0-733442), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as Navigator of the leading airplane of a Heavy Bombardment Division on a mission over Germany on 20 December 1943. Despite extremely adverse weather conditions, Lieutenant Lees skillfully navigated the formation directly to the assigned target, which was successfully bombed. Though under constant attack by enemy fighters during the withdrawal from the target, Lieutenant Lees avoided heavy concentrations of flak and led the formation back to England. The courage and technical skill displayed by Lieutenant Lees materially aided in the completion of an important mission and reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.