WWII pilot receives Distinguished Flying Cross Published Feb. 10, 2011 By Staff Sgt. James M. Hodgman and Staff Sgt. Richard Williams 55th Wing Public Affairs OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- He flew dangerous missions during World War II where his aircraft took intense enemy fire, yet he and his crew still accomplished their mission. Because of this bravery under fire, 1st Lt. William "Bill" Wrenn was posthumously awarded the highest honor one can receive for aerial achievement, the Distinguished Flying Cross, Feb. 7 in Columbus, Neb. Unfortunately, Lieutenant Wrenn passed away before he could be presented the DFC. His wife of 69 years, Evelyn received the honor on his behalf. During WWII, Lieutenant Wrenn flew B-24s. His job was to navigate the aircraft over enemy territory and take pictures of enemy formations. His team's findings were relayed to higher headquarters. While on a mission to take photographs for the mapping of Luzon prior to the planned invasion of U.S. forces, Lieutenant Wrenn discovered several Japanese Navy ships below. The ships were on their way to what would become known as the "Battle of Leyte Gulf," the largest naval battle of WWII and considered by many to be the largest naval battle in history. Lieutenant Wrenn's crew photographed the ships and relayed their findings to headquarters then continued on to Luzon where cloud cover prevented them from taking accurate photographs. Unable to photograph the area below, Lieutenant Wrenn turned his aircraft back toward Morotai, a small island in the Netherlands East Indies, which was the location of his operating base. However, he soon discovered more Japanese navy ships. The vessels below also spotted his B-24 and opened fire. Despite facing hostile fire, Lieutenant Wrenn maneuvered the aircraft so his photographer could take photos of the enemy while his radio operator relayed their findings to headquarters. He then returned the plane and every member of his crew back to base unharmed. For these brave actions, Lieutenant Wrenn and every member of his team received the Distinguished Flying Cross. The honor was delayed more than 60 years for Lieutenant Wrenn because the mission he flew on that fateful day over the Philippines was classified. The DFC was authorized by an Act of Congress on July 2, 1926. The medal is awarded to any officer or enlisted person of the armed forces of the United States who distinguishes themselves in actual combat in support of operations by heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight. "Today is all about your wonderful and heroic husband," said Col. William Jensen, 55th Wing vice commander, as he presented the DFC to Mrs. Wrenn. "When the Distinguished Flying Cross was authorized more than 80 years ago it was first given to such names as (Charles) Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart," Colonel Jensen said. "Your husband's name is now among those who have received this most distinguished award." (Editor's Note: Information from a story by Eric Freeman of the Columbus Telegram was used in this story.)