Navy Federal Credit Union

William Karnes graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Class of 1929. He was killed in an air crash in Italy in 1944.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Colonel (Air Corps)

    Regiment:

    98th Bombardment Group

    Division:

    15th Air Force

    Action Date:

    World War II

    United States Military Academy Register of Graduates

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Colonel (Air Corps) William Ernest Karnes (ASN: 0-17650), United States Army Air Forces, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as Commanding Officer, 98th Bombardment Group, FIFTEENTH Air Force, during World War II. 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.