George Kassab
George Kassab
Class of 1939
530th Squadron, 380th Bomb Group
Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism during an air battle. In response to intelligence that a Japanese cruiser would possibly be in the vicinity, “Old Hickory, of the 530th Bomb Squadron piloted by Jack Brtton with George Kassab as the co-pilot, made the arduous flight from Fenton Field in Australia to Macassar in the Celbes. Although there was no cruiser, the Liberator (B-24 Bomber) was spotted and attacked by four Japanese Zeros (A6M Zero fighers). At first the Zeros unsuccessfully attacked with aerial burst bombs, and then reverted to more convention methods. The Liberator responded with 50cal fire. Despite sever damage, at the end of the ensuing fight, three Zeros were shot down. Lt. Kassab and the rest of the crew received the Distinguished Flying Cross for their “courageous service” during this air battle.
