The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Air Medal to Staff Sergeant William J. Bennett (ASN: 15383011), United States Army Air Forces, for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight as Gunner-Observer of an A-20 type aircraft. On 7 January 1945, Sergeant Bennett flew on a night intruder attack against targets of opportunity in the Po Valley, Italy. Near Massa, a convoy of motor transport was bombed with many explosions and fires resulting from apparent strikes on ammunition trucks. This observation was made by Sergeant Bennett from his position as lower-gunner and much other information was obtained by his skillful reporting of observations in the assigned area. The combat efficiency and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Bennett reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Air Medal to Staff Sergeant William J. Bennett (ASN: 15383011), United States Army Air Forces, for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight as Gunner-Observer of an A-20 type aircraft. On 25 June 1944, Sergeant Bennett flew on a highly successful mission directed against an enemy ammunition dump near Leghorn, Italy. Despite intense and accurate heavy anti-aircraft fire which holed his aircraft several times, Staff Sergeant Bennett’s attention to duty greatly aided in the successful bomb run. The resulting fires and explosions indicated heavy damage was inflicted. The personal courage and devotion to duty as displayed by Sergeant Bennett reflects great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Air Medal to Staff Sergeant William J. Bennett (ASN: 15383011), United States Army Air Forces, for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight as Gunner-Observer of an A-20 type aircraft. On 29 January 1945, Staff Sergeant Bennett flew on a highly successful night intruder mission against targets of opportunity in the Po Valley, Italy. A train was located and bombed, bringing it to a standstill. Staff Sergeant Bennett made observations from his position as lower gunner that helped the bombardier in the bombing of this vitally needed enemy transportation facility. His professional skill and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the armed forces of the United States.