media-16514.png UPL 16514 1st Lt Saul Marias Pilot - 601st Squadron 398th Bomb Group. Pilot, "Bedroom Eyes". Distinguished Flying Cross. 21 Dec. 1944. SAUL G. MARIAS. 0-819844, First Lieutenant, Air Corps, United States Army. For extraordinary achievement while serving as Pilot of a B-17 airplane on a bombing mission over Germany, 28 September 1944. On this date immediately after bombs away, the airplane which Lieutenant Marias was piloting sustained several direct flak hits. The Number Three engine was hit and had to be feathered. The gasoline tank of Number Four engine was struck and the fuel drained from it, causing it to be feathered. In addition the hydraulic system was disabled, rendering the brakes useless. Due to lack of power caused by the two feathered engines the aircraft rapidly lost altitude and Lieutenant Marias was forced to leave the formation. Exhibiting exemplary tenacity of purpose and consummate flying ability he successfully accomplished the flight to an emergency field in friendly territory and effected a forced landing without injury to the crew or damage to the aircraft. The courage, coolness and skill displayed by Lieutenant Marias on this occasion reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Entered military service from New York. Nuthampstead Airfield Museum collection

398th.org