~ Capt. James A. Gunn, Jr, was Killed In Action (KIA) on the bombing mission over the oil refineries at Ploesti, Romania, in his B-24D, 42-40364. 1 Aug, 43.



He was a Command B-24D pilot assigned to the 343rd Bomb Squadron, and the 98th Bomb Group, on the deadly Ploesti mission. He flew on the left side of Flight Three's airplanes and was shot down by the heavy flak over his target, The Astra Romano refinery complex, code named, White IV. - Capt. Gunn and seven of his crew were killed in the crash of their B-24 Liberator bomber - KIA, over Ploesti. SSgt Stanley M. Horine Jr. parachuted out of the B-24 and was the only survivor, becoming a POW that day. Because Capt. Gunn's remains were never identified, he was first classified, Missing In Action, MIA - later classified as a Finding of Death from the crash. He was awarded the Silver Star for his flying skill, his valor, determination, and his sacrifice, in attacking and bombing his target against impossible odds, without any consideration or regard to his own safety for the 1 Aug 1943 raid on Ploesti. He had previously earned the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters for missions flown in 1943. He was awarded the Purple Heart posthumously.



Captain Gunn's Silver Star Citation:



JAMES A. GUNN, JR., O-791098, Captain, 343rd Bombardment Squadron, 98th Bombardment Group. For gallantry in action while participating in operations against the Ploesti Oil Refineries of Romania on 1 August, 1943. Captain Gunn, pilot of heavy bombardment aircraft and leader of one of the elements during this long-range, low-altitude assault on one of the greatest production centers of the Axis, distinguished himself by outstanding gallantry, superb airmanship, and invincible determination. Flying at 200 feet over the target, through smoke and roaring flames, oil tank explosions, exploding bombs, barrage balloons and a violent concentration of heavy flak, he kept to his course and went over the target. The valor he displayed when faced with overwhelming odds and great peril will serve as a lasting inspiration to the men of the United States Army Air Forces. Captain Gunn is missing in action: Next of kin: Senator James A. Gunn, Sr., (Father) Turners Falls, Massachusetts.