Joined Sqd 20-Mar-42.

ETO/Flight Echelon 2-Oct-42.

DS/Bengahzi 26-Jun-43.

Took part in Operation Tidal Wave, the raid on Ploesti on 1-Aug-43, flying B-24 Liberator 41-23813.

Promoted to C. O. 3-Jul-43.

Returned to base 26-Aug-43.

Completed tour 1-Oct-43.

Trans to Wing 4-Nov-43.



He went on Sub patrol in the months of April and May with Lt. Erwin and Capt O'Brien over the Gulf of Mexico. They flew a ship from the 66th squadron and used men from the 68th for the crew. On 10-Jul-42 they destroyed a submarine at 2010 hours.



DSC Actual Citation



JOHN H. DIEHL, JR., 0-427313, Captain, 68th Bombardment Squadron, 44th Bombardment Group (H). For distinguishing himself by extraordinary heroism while participating in operations against the Ploesti Oil Refineries of Roumania on 1 August 1943. As commanding officer of the 68th Bombardment Squadron, Captain Diehl piloted the lead aircraft in a formation of B-24 type aircraft that attacked a highly important oil refinery at extremely low altitude. Because of the nature of the target it was imperative for the lead pilot to follow an exact course to and over the target. Some fifteen miles before reaching the objective, Captain Diehl’s aircraft was subjected to heavy point-blank anti-aircraft and machine-gun fire. Knowing that to take normal evasive action would disrupt the close formation, Captain Diehl, thinking only of the complete destruction of the target ahead, and with complete disregard for personal risk, kept fast to the course, leading his formation through fire and smoke straight over the target. His courageous determination and exceptional piloting skill made possible the successful bombing of the target.

Residence at commission: Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico.



General Orders No. 90, Headquarters, Ninth Air Force, 16 September 1943



DSC Citation Synopsis (2nd of 2 Awards)



Captain (Air Corps) John H. Diehl, Jr., United States Army Air Forces, was awarded a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Pilot of a B-25 Bomber, while participating in a bombing mission against enemy targets during World War II. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Captain Diehl on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.





Awards: DSC (OLC), AM (3OLC), PH, AF Commendation, WWII Victory, American Campaign and Defense Medals, National Defense, EAME (4 x Battle Stars).



Post war: Had a long successful USAF career serving in Korea and Vietnam eventually retiring as full Colonel in 1964.