First Lieutenant Edward V. Rickenbacker, U.S. Army, Medal of Honor Recipient

Rickenbacker of the 94th Aero Squadron was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions near Billy, France on September 25, 1918.

Citation:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy near Billy, France, 25 September 1918. While on a voluntary patrol over the lines, 1st Lt. Rickenbacker attacked 7 enemy planes (5 type Fokker, protecting two type Halberstadt). Disregarding the odds against him, he dived on them and shot down one of the Fokkers out of control. He then attacked one of the Halberstadts and sent it down also.

 

Photo courtesy of the United States Department of Defense