BANCROFT PILOT AWARDED MEDAL FOR AIR FIGHTING
An Eighth Air Force Liberator Station, England—Second Lieutenant Harold E. Presthus, son of Mr. and Mrs. Hans Presthus of Bancroft, a pilot on a B-24 Liberator, has been awarded the Air Medal.
The presentation was made by his group commander, Colonel Jacob J. Brogger, at this Eighth AAF base in England.
The citation reads: “For meritorious achievement in accomplishing aerial operational missions over enemy occupied Continental Europe. The courage, coolness and skill displayed by him in the face of determined opposition materially aided in the successful completion of these missions. His actions reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.”
Lt. Presthus entered the service Aug. 28, 1942, according to the Bancroft Register.
Source: Algona Upper Des Moines, October 17, 1944 (photo included)
