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"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above
and beyond the call of duty, as a division leader in VMF 221 in action against enemy Japanese aerial forces
in the Solomon Islands Area, April 7, 1943. In a daring flight to intercept a wave of 150 Japanese planes, First Lieutenant
Swett unhesitatingly hurled his four-plane division into action against
a formation of fifteen enemy bombers and during his dive personally
exploded three hostile planes in mid-air with accurate and deadly fire. Although separated from his division while clearing the heavy
concentration of anti-aircraft fire, he boldly attacked six enemy
bombers, engaged the first four in turn, and unaided, shot them down in
flames. Exhausting his ammunition as he closed the fifth Japanese
bomber, he relentlessly drove his attack against terrific opposition
which partially disabled his engine, shattered the windscreen and
slashed his face. In spite of this, he brought his battered plane down
with skillful precision in the water off Tulagi
without further injury. The superb airmanship and tenacious fighting
spirit which enabled First Lieutenant Swett to destroy eight enemy
bombers in a single flight were in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service."
From 1Lt. Swett's Medal of Honor citation, awarded in 1943.
A ass-kinkin' bad ass right outta the gate!
Brian
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