"For conspicuous
gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action
with the enemy, Col. Kearby volunteered to lead a flight of 4 fighters
to reconnoiter the strongly defended enemy base at Wewak. Having
observed enemy installations and reinforcements at 4 airfields, and
secured important tactical information, he saw an enemy fighter below
him, made a diving attack and shot it down in flames. The small
formation then sighted approximately 12 enemy bombers accompanied by 36
fighters. Although his mission had been completed, his fuel was running
low, and the numerical odds were 12 to 1, he gave the signal to attack.
Diving into the midst of the enemy airplanes he shot down 3 in quick
succession. Observing 1 of his comrades with 2 enemy fighters in
pursuit, he destroyed both enemy aircraft. The enemy broke off in large
numbers to make a multiple attack on his airplane but despite his peril
he made one more pass before seeking cloud protection. Coming into the
clear, he called his flight together and led them to a friendly base.
Col. Kearby brought down 6 enemy aircraft in this action, undertaken
with superb daring after his mission was completed."
From Col. Nearby's Medal of Honor citation, awarded in January 1944.
May you be at peace,
Brian
The statue's memorial.
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