Jack D. Dale, Jr.’s Distinguished Service Cross citation

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 Second Lieutenant (Air Corps) Jack Delmar Dale, Jr. (ASN: 0-401140/4176A), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Pilot of a P-40 Fighter Airplane in the 17th Pursuit Squadron, 24th Pursuit Group, FAR EAST Air Force, in action near Vigan, Ilocos Norte, Philippine Islands, on 10 December 1941. Into a concentration of anti-aircraft fire from cruisers and several destroyers, submarines and other armed enemy craft, Lieutenant Dale led his flight in repeated attacks which entirely disrupted a strong landing effort by the Japanese forces. His exhibition of courageous leadership and of unflinching devotion to duty in the face of great odds resulted not only in the silencing of three anti-aircraft guns and the destruction of numerous barges with a consequent high toll among the invaders, but in providing inspiration to pilots and other personnel. Second Lieutenant Dale’s unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.