William R. Lawley, Jr.

William Robert Lawley Jr. (August 23, 1920 – May 30, 1999) was a United States Army Air Forces officer and a recipient of the United States military's highest decoration—the Medal of Honor—for his actions in World War II.

Early life Born in 1920 in Leeds, Alabama, Lawley graduated from high school in his hometown in 1938.

Military career Lawley joined the Army Air Forces from Birmingham, Alabama in April 1942, and earned his wings and commission at Altus, Oklahoma, in April 1943.

He died at age 78 due to complications from pneumonia in Montgomery, Alabama He was buried in Greenwood Cemetery, Montgomery, Alabama.

Medal of Honor citation Lawley's official Medal of Honor citation reads: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the call of duty, 20 February 1944, while serving as pilot of a B-17 aircraft on a heavy bombardment mission over enemy-occupied continental Europe. Coming off the target he was attacked by approximately 20 enemy fighters, shot out of formation, and his plane severely crippled. Eight crewmembers were wounded, the copilot was killed by a 20-mm. shell. One engine was on fire, the controls shot away, and 1st Lt. Lawley seriously and painfully wounded about the face. Forcing the copilot's body off the controls, he brought the plane out of a steep dive, flying with his left hand only. Blood covered the instruments and windshield and visibility was impossible. With a full bomb load the plane was difficult to maneuver and bombs could not be released because the racks were frozen. After the order to bail out had been given, 1 of the waist gunners informed the pilot that 2 crewmembers were so severely wounded that it would be impossible for them to bail out. With the fire in the engine spreading, the danger of an explosion was imminent. Because of the helpless condition of his wounded crewmembers 1st Lt. Lawley elected to remain with the ship and bring them to safety if it was humanly possible, giving the other crewmembers the option of bailing out. Enemy fighters again attacked but by using masterful evasive action he managed to lose them. One engine again caught on fire and was extinguished by skillful flying. 1st Lt. Lawley remained at his post, refusing first aid until he collapsed from sheer exhaustion caused by loss of blood, shock, and the energy he had expended in keeping control of his plane. He was revived by the bombardier and again took over the controls. Coming over the English coast 1 engine ran out of gasoline and had to be feathered. Another engine started to burn and continued to do so until a successful crash landing was made on a small fighter base. Through his heroism and exceptional flying skill, 1st Lt. Lawley rendered outstanding distinguished and valorous service to our Nation.

Awards and decorations

with oak leaf clusterPresidential Unit Citation3rd rowAir Force Outstanding Unit Award with oak leaf clusterAmerican Campaign MedalEuropean–African–Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with two campaign stars4th RowWorld War II Victory MedalNational Defense Service Medal with service starAir and Space Longevity Service Award with six oak leaf clusters.