Chief Radioman Twice Honored
Sioux Cityan Decorated for Heroism in Air Battles
Lewis J. Singleton, aviation chief radioman, son of Mrs. Elsie Farrer, 1618 Irene Street, Sioux City, wears the distinguished flying cross and the gold star in lieu of the second air medal “for distinguishing himself by meritorious acts and by heroism and extraordinary achievement.” The awards were made by Capt. H. L. Young, at the naval air station, Seattle.
Flying Cross Citation
The citation accompanying the Distinguished Flying Cross presented by the commander of the First Garrier task force in the Pacific, in the name of the president of the United States read as follows:
“For distinguishing himself by heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight as radioman of a carrier based torpedo bomber assigned to attack major units of the Japanese fleet in the vicinity of Kyushu, Japan on April 7, 1945. In spite of adverse weather conditions and in the face of intense antiaircraft fire, he performed his duties skillfully during the attack and materially assisted his pilot in scoring direct torpedo hits on a light cruiser which was seen to sink a few seconds later. His courage and skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval service.”
Gold Star Citation
The citation accompanying the gold star in lieu of a second air medal reads as follows: “For distinguishing himself by meritorious acts while participating in an aerial flight against the enemy on April 1, 1945, in the vicinity of Amami Shima, Nanse Shoto. As radioman of a carrier based torpedo bomber he participated in a night torpedo attack on Japanese naval units for which his squadron volunteered. In spite of darkness and intense and accurate antiaircraft fire from the enemy warships, he carried out the duties assigned to him skillfully during the attack. His proficient and accurate preparation and employment of his equipment contributed materially to the successful execution of the mission which crippled and delayed the enemy forces, resulting in their destruction the following day. His courage and skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Source: Sioux City Journal, August 19, 1945 (photo included)
Source: ancestry.com
