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 Major (Air Corps) Emmett O’Donnell, Jr. (ASN: 0-17299/A), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism, leadership, and display of flying skill. At dawn of 9 December 1941, Major O’Donnell led his squadron of B-17’s from Ben Marcelino to Clark Field for the purpose of taking on bombs for a mission against enemy landing operation at Vigan. Because of an air raid alarm all planes were immediately ordered off the ground. Major O’Donnell proceeded individually to Vigan where he attacked a heavy cruiser and destroyer escort. Because of mechanical trouble with bomb racks, Major O’Donnell found it necessary to remain over the target for approximately 45 minutes making a total of five distinct bombing runs in order to drop his bombs. During the entire time he was subjected to heavy anti-aircraft fire. During the last run enemy pursuit attempted to intercept. Major O’Donnell’s calmness under fire and his determination to carry out his mission, set an example of leadership and heroism that afforded his officers and men the inspiration and confidence to carry on in spite of almost insurmountable difficulties and again heavy odds.