Joseph enlisted into the United States Army Air Corps (later
air forces) on November 29, 1942. He was 18 years old.
After training as a navigator, joseph was shipped overseas
to join the famous 15th AAF based in Italy. He was assigned to be a
navigator on the B-24 Liberator.
His station was in Manduria, Italy and was part of the 450th
Bomb Group, 721st Bomber squadron.
At some point during his service, Joseph mentions that his
aircraft was shot down over Yugoslavia. He also mentions that he got out of the
B-24 and we assume that he parachuted out.
Joseph was awarded the DFC (Distinguished Flying Cross) the
Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Good Conduct medal as well as the
American Campaign medal.
In addition he was awarded the European-African-Middle
Eastern Campaign Medal with one silver (in lieu of five bronze) service star
for participation in Normandy, North Appennines, Southern France, Northern
France and Air Combat theater campaigns. The WWII Victory Medal and the French
Legion of Honor was presented to him as well.
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