ARTHUR L. DOWNING, then Lieutenant, United States Naval Reserve. For extraordinary heroism as pilot of a Scout Bomber in action against enemy Japanese forces at Salamaua and Lae, New Guinea, on March 10, 1942. In the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant (junior grade) Downing dived and skillfully attacked one of three Japanese aircraft tenders or transports and obtained a direct hit on one of the hostile vessels. By his superb airmanship and outstanding courage he contributed to the destruction of the three enemy ships and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

View Captain Downing’s Navy Cross.

View Captain Downing’s Second Gold Star.

CPT Downing resided in Florida.