"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the
call of duty, 20 February 1944, while serving as pilot of a B-17 aircraft on a heavy bombardment mission over enemy-occupied continental
Europe. Coming off the target he was attacked by approximately 20 enemy
fighters, shot out of formation, and his plane severely crippled. Eight
crewmembers were wounded, the copilot was killed by a 20-mm.
shell. One engine was on fire, the controls shot away, and 1st Lt.
Lawley seriously and painfully wounded about the face. Forcing the
copilot's body off the controls, he brought the plane out of a steep
dive, flying with his left hand only. Blood covered the instruments and
windshield and visibility was impossible. With a full bomb load the
plane was difficult to maneuver and bombs could not be released because
the racks were frozen. After the order to bail out had been given, 1 of
the waist gunners informed the pilot that 2 crewmembers were so severely
wounded that it would be impossible for them to bail out. With the fire
in the engine spreading, the danger of an explosion was imminent.
Because of the helpless condition of his wounded crewmembers 1st Lt.
Lawley elected to remain with the ship and bring them to safety if it
was humanly possible, giving the other crewmembers the option of bailing
out. Enemy fighters again attacked but by using masterful evasive
action he managed to lose them. One engine again caught on fire and was
extinguished by skillful flying. 1st Lt. Lawley remained at his post,
refusing first aid until he collapsed from sheer exhaustion caused by
loss of blood, shock, and the energy he had expended in keeping control
of his plane. He was revived by the bombardier and again took over the controls. Coming over the English coast 1 engine ran out of gasoline and had to be feathered.
Another engine started to burn and continued to do so until a
successful crash landing was made on a small fighter base. Through his
heroism and exceptional flying skill, 1st Lt. Lawley rendered
outstanding distinguished and valorous service to our Nation."
From 1st. Lt. Lawley's Medal of Honor citation, awarded on August 8, 1944.
May you be at peace,
Brian
No comments:
Post a Comment