Crew 20

Crew 20 was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for their extraordinary achievement during a mission against Nagoya on June 26, 1945. The citation reads: "For extraordinary achievement during aerial flight on June 26, 1945. As members of a B-29 crew, they participated in a daylight strike against Nagoya, Japan. Despite intense enemy fighter attacks and heavy flak, they completed the bombing run with devastating results. After their aircraft was seriously damaged by anti-aircraft fire, they maneuvered to protect a more severely damaged B-29, showing exceptional devotion and skill. Their actions greatly contributed to the war effort and reflect credit on themselves and the Army Air Forces." However, not all crew members received the DFC. Only Tom Campbell (Pilot), Harry Robinson (Bombardier), Charles Castle (Flight Engineer), William Emery (Gunner), and Joshua Shubin (Gunner) were named. Radio Operator Henry Wysocki and Castle have been working for years to rectify this oversight. Now 73, Wysocki continues to appeal the issue without success. Flight Engineer Charles Castle recalls their crew aiding a B-29 that had to ditch off the Japanese coast. They stayed airborne on three engines while a rescue submarine retrieved the downed crew. After returning to Guam, the crew had two weeks of rest in Hawaii.

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