Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A United States of America Second World War Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal group of five awarded to Captain J. A. Paduana, 445th Bombing Squadron, United States Air Force

United States of America, Distinguished Flying Cross, unnamed as issued, in case of issue; Air Medal, with one silver and four bronze oak leaf clusters on riband, unnamed as issued, in case of issue; American Campaign Medal, in card box of issue; European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, in card box of issue; Victory Medal 1941-45, good very fine and better (5) £200-£240

D.F.C. Awarded 14 December 1944.
The official citation states: ‘For extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as navigator of a B-25 type aircraft. On 10 March 1944, Captain Paduana flew as flight navigator in a formation attacking the Littorio marshalling yards near Rome, Italy. Upon the approach to the target a heavy overcast enveloped the bombers and Captain Paduana’s flight became separated from the formation and the fighter escort. Displaying superior professional skill and determination when his pilot elected to continue the mission unescorted, Captain Paduana guided him directly to the initial point. Then, aiding his bombardier in setting course for a perfect run over the objective, Captain Paduana enabled his bombers to release their bombs with devastating effect upon this vital enemy communications center. On more than fifty combat missions, his outstanding proficiency and steadfast devotion to duty have reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.’

Joseph Anthony Paduana was born in Utica, New York, and enlisted in the United States Air Force on 20 January 1942. He served with 445th Bombing Squadron, and completed 50 missions at medium altitude with the 12th Air Force in Italy and Corsica. As Squadron Navigator, he lead the Group on 20 occasions, and the Squadron on the rest of the missions.

Sold with the recipient’s Pilot’s Navigation Kit and Classification Folder; silver identity bracelet; official metal identity tag; cap badge; a portrait photograph of the recipient; and various other ephemera.