Congresswoman Beatty Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Award Medal of Honor to World War II Pilot Major Dominic S. Gentile

Congresswoman Beatty Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Award Medal of Honor to World War II Pilot Major Dominic S. Gentile

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) introduced bipartisan legislation, H.R. 1857, to honor extraordinary World War II hero Major Dominic S. Gentile by posthumously awarding him the Medal of Honor. The legislation is being cosponsored by Rep. Steve Stivers (OH-15) and is endorsed by the National Desert Storm and Desert Shield Memorial.

"Major Gentile's distinguished career in the United States Army Air Force helped keep our nation safe from threats abroad," said Rep. Beatty. "It is past time that our nation posthumously honors him for his service and well-deserved accolades."

During World War II, Major Gentile served our nation as a proud member of the United States Army Air Force. As a servicemember, he destroyed at least 30 enemy aircraft, making him one of the highest scoring fighter pilots in American history and earning him the title of ‘‘Ace of Aces.'' He was the first American fighter pilot to surpass Captain Eddie Rickenbacker's WWI record of 26 enemy aircrafts destroyed.

Scott Stump, CEO and President of the National Desert Storm War Memorial commented, "I applaud Congresswoman Beatty's leadership in honoring one of our nation's most decorated veterans with this esteemed honor. We must never forget those who have served and sacrificed for our nation and our freedoms."

Born in Piqua, Ohio, Major Gentile's contributions to the war efforts demonstrate the important role Ohioans have played in aviation. With such important names as the Wright Brothers, John Glenn, Neil Armstrong, and numerous others, Ohioans have been at the forefront of aviation history. Gentile Air Force Station in Kettering, Ohio was named in the Major's honor in 1962 and in 1995, the National Aviation Hall of Fame inducted him into their organization.

Major Gentile's decorations include two Distinguished Service Crosses, seven Distinguished Flying Crosses, the Silver Star, and the Air Medal. He has received similar honors from Great Britain, Italy, Belgium, and Canada.