The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Air Corps) John Henry Diehl, Jr. (ASN: 0-427313), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Pilot of a B-24 Heavy Bomber in the 68th Bombardment Squadron, 44th Bombardment Group (H), NINTH Air Force (Attached), while participating in a bombing mission on 1 August 1943, against the Ploesti Oil Refineries in Rumania. As Commanding Officer of the 68th Bombardment Squadron, Captain Diehl piloted the lead plane in a formation of B-24 type aircraft that attacked a highly important oil refinery at extremely low altitude. Because of the nature of the target it was imperative for the lead pilot to follow an exact course to and over the target. Some 15 miles before reaching the objective, Captain Diehl’s aircraft was subjected to heavy pointblank anti-aircraft and machine gun fire. Knowing that to take normal evasive action would disrupt the close formation, Captain Diehl, thinking only of the complete destruction of the target ahead, and with complete disregard for personal risk, kept fast to the course, leading his formation through fire and smoke straight over the target. His courageous determination and exceptional piloting skill made possible the successful bombing of the target. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Captain Diehl on this occasion, even when confronted with practically certain destruction, exemplified the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 9th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.