Black and white formal photograph of Lester W. Saunders, Staff Sgt. United States Air Force Awarded Soldier's Medal, 2 Oak Leaf Clusters and Air Medal

Donated by Helen Loukas. Headquarters: European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 79 (1943) *SAUNDERS, LESTER W. (KIA) The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Lester W. Saunders (36600511), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Gunner on a B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 418th Bombardment Squadron, 100th Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 8 October 1943, against enemy targets in the European Theater of Operations. The personal courage and devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Saunders on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 8th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces. Headquarters: European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 97 (1943) Home Town: Cook County, Illinois

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