Dick Andrews

The hero P-38 pilot who refused to leave his friend

When Dick Andrews and his fellow pilot Dick Willsie were strafing ground targets in Romania on Aug. 4, 1944, Willsie’s P-38 was hit and he crash landed in a freshly plowed field under enemy fire. Dick Andrews, circling overhead, refused to leave his friend and landed his P-38 under fire in the field next to him, crammed his friend behind him in the cockpit and flew 2 ½ hours back to base. Dick Andrews was later awarded the Silver Star for his cool judgment, bravery, and flying skill.

It takes Valor to face death for your friend and Honor to never leave a man behind.