Below is part of a letter describing the loss of Ray's plane, sent from the Office of the Commanding General, FIFTEENTH AIR FORCE on 6 November 1944

As a symbol of the high regard in which Ray's accomplishments are held, he has been awarded the Air Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters. On behalf of his many friends, among whom he has won an enviable position of respect and esteem, I extend earnest hopes for his safety. (complete letter)

Very sincerely yours,
N. F. Twining,
Major General, USA
Commanding
   The Air Medal is awarded to any person who, while serving in any capacity in or with the U.S. Army, will have distinguished himself or herself by meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight. Awards may be made to recognize single acts of merit or heroism, or for meritorious service. Award of the Air Medal is primarily intended to recognize those personnel who are on current crew member or non-crew member flying status which requires them to participate in aerial flight on a regular and frequent basis in the performance of their primary duties.
   Examples of personnel whose combat duties require them to fly include those in the attack elements of units involved in air-land assaults against an armed enemy and those directly involved in airborne command and control of combat operations.
   In the U.S. Air Force subsequent awards are annotated with the traditional oak leaf clusters.
A note on medals
<home><site map>