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Clayton Bissell [USA]

Name:Clayton Lawrence Bissell
Country:United States
Rank:Captain
Service:United States Air Service
Squadrons:148th Aero
Victories:6
Born:29 July 1896
Place of Birth:Kane, Pennsylvania
Died:24 December 1972
Place of Death:Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Distinguished Service Cross (DSC - United States)
Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)
Clayton Bissell

Notes
Graduating from Valpariso University with a degree in the law, Bissell enlisted in the United States Air Service in 1917. Assigned to the 148th Pursuit Squadron operating under British control, he shot down six Fokker D.VII's while flying the Sopwith Camel. In 1919, he assumed command of the 639th Pursuit Squadron in occupied Germany. Bissell later served on General "Billy" Mitchell's staff, leading the flight that sank the Ostrieland. In 1922, he made the first successful night flight from Washingon to New York. During World War II, Bissell served as air advisor to General Joseph Stilwell in China and later assumed command of the 10th Air Force in India. Following World War II, he served as Air Attache in London and retired in 1950 having attained the rank of Major General.

Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)
"For skill and gallantry. On 28 October [1918], this officer with his flight, attacked eight Fokker biplanes and after firing a short burst succeeded in shooting down one EA which crashed north of Jenlain. He was then attacked by three other Fokkers but outmaneuvered them and finally shot down one which crashed close to the other. He finished this fight about 200 feet from the ground and was being severely machine gunned by enemy infantry. This officer has served over four months with his squadron and has destroyed four EA and driven down three out of control. His courage, skill and disregard of danger have been worthy of the highest praise." DFC citation, London Gazette

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