LT. HATHWAY GIVEN AWARD

Missing Marine Flier Is Honored With the Flying Cross.

First Lt. Alonzo N. Hathway, Webster City marine flier who was reported missing in action nearly a year ago, has been awarded the distinguished flying cross “for heroism and extraordinary achievement” his parents, Dr. and Mrs. Guy McCauliff, have been notified.

The marine flier’s wife, who lives at Silver Springs, Md, has sent Dr. and Mrs. McCauliff a copy of the citation and letter from marine corps headquarters in which it is stated that the decoration and citation will be held at marine headquarters, Washington, D. C., “for Lieutenant Hathway in case he should be available for presentation of this award at some time in the future.”

An Official Copy

The official copy of the citation from James Forrestal, secretary of the navy, said the award has been made “for service as set forth in the following citation:

“For heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as member of marine torpedo bombing squadron two thirty-three during operations against enemy Japanese land installations and shipping in the Solomon Islands-New Britain area from Nov. 1, to Dec. 10, 1943 and from Jan. 16 to Feb. 14, 1944.

“After taking part in numerous attacks and scoring direct hits on enemy airfields at Lakunai, Vunakanau and Tobera, First Lieutenant Hathway set out on Feb. 14, on a night aerial mine-laying mission in Simpson harbor, Rabaul, and, displaying expert flying skill and indomitable courage, made a long, level flight at slow air speed and at precariously low altitude directly over solid concentrations of heavy, automatic anti-aircraft weapons and searchlights.

“Spotted by numerous Japanese searchlights before reaching his objective and forced to maneuver his plane through intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire from both shore and ship batteries, he remained steadfast on his course and, despite severe damage to his plane, released his mine in its assigned position. First Lieutenant Hathway’s superb airmanship and unswerving devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States naval service.”

Source: Daily Freeman Journal, Webster City, IA – Jan. 22, 1945

Alonzo N Hathway, Jr