Walter James Joos, Bombardier/Navigator, 596 Bomb Squadron, 397 Bomb Group.

SILVER STAR

By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved 9 July 1918 (Bull, 43, WD 1918), and in accordance with the authority delegated by the War Department, the SILVER STAR is awarded to, WALTER J. JOSS XXXXX553, 1st Lieutenant, Air Corps, 387th Bombardment Group (M). For gallantry in action on 11 August 1944 while serving as lead bombardier in a B-26 type aircraft in aerial flight against the enemy in the European Theater of Operations. After his aircraft had successfully bombed the target an accurate burst of antiaircraft fire wounded Lt JOOS in the back and shoulder.

Disregarding the pain of his injuries he bravely remained at his post and directed evasive action until the formation was safely out of enemy territory. The courage, tenacity, and devotion to duty displayed by Lt JOOS on this occasion were instrumental in the success of the mission and reflect great credit upon himself and the Army, Air Force. Entered military service from California.

DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS

By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved 2 July 1926 ( Bull. 8, WD 1926 ),and in accordance with the authority delegated by the War Department, a Distinguished Flying Cross is awarded to, WALTER J. JOOS, XXXXX553, 1st Lieutenant, Air Corps, 397th Bombardment Group (M). For extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial 'flight against the enemy in the European Theater of Operations. On 28 May 1944 Lt Joos was leading a flight of B-26 type of aircraft against an important bridge at Liege, Belgium, and when another flight approached from the left on an intersecting course he immediately changed his course and began a second bombing run in the face of intense enemy antiaircraft fire. A highly successful bombing run was achieved and two spans of the bridge were demolished.

Again on 6 June 1944 LT JOSS led his flight to an extremely vulnerable altitude when it became apparent that the target could not be bombed at the briefed altitude and by his superior leadership and determination despite concentrated enemy fire the objective was bombed with devastating results. Lt Joos's brilliant leadership and devotion to duty throughout this period were in keeping with the highest tradition of the Army Air Corps. Entered military service from California.

BRONZE STAR

By direction of the PRESIDENT, under the provisions of Executive Order 9419, 4 February 1944 (See 11, Bul. 3, WD, 1944 ) and pursuant to authority contained in Air Force regulation 30-14, 22 August 1950 and Section VH General Orders Number 63, Department of the Air Force, 19 September 1950, the BRONZE STAR MEDAL for meritorious service in connection with military operations against an enemy during the periods indicated is awarded to Major WALTER J. JOOS.

Major WALTER J. JOOS, distinguished himself by meritorious service in connection with military operations against an enemy from 22 February to 30 September 1951. During the period 22 February to 30 April 1951 Major JOGS served as Assistant Wing Radar Observer, 98th Bombardment Wing (M) (ADVON) while flying as a regularly assigned combat crew Radar Observer. From 1 May to 5 August 1951 he served as Wing Bombardier and Assistant Wing Observer; and from 6 August to 30 September 1951, as Wing Operations Officer and Wing Observer.

Major JOOS worked tirelessly and energetically toward the development of better planning procedures for bombing missions and higher proficiency of observers. He contributed to the development of a more effective method of scoring radar and visual photography, and initiated the use of detailed target folders in his organization. Major Joos' resourcefulness, professional skill and devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Force and the United States Air Force.

PURPLE HEART

Under the provisions of AR 600 - 45, 22 September 1943, and pursuant to authority contained in Sect 1, Cir 32, HQ ETOUSA, 20 March 1944, the PURPLE HEART is awarded to, WALTER J. JOOS, XXXXX553, FIRST LIEUTENANT, Air Corps, United States Army. For wounds received in action against an enemy of the United States on 11 August 1944, while serving as Bombardier on B-26 airplane on a combat operational mission over enemy occupied territory. Entered military service from California.

My Uncle Walt after his second combat mission, is the last man on the right of the first picture...he is standing in his uniform with his cap on. Also in the picture with the 99 missions, his name is painted on the nose of the "Mammy Yokum" after he was wounded on his 58th mission.

In 1951 I was 6 years when I met my Uncle Sid Homan. He knocked on the front door, the door opened and he stood broad at the shoulders & over 6 feet tall. The sun was behind him and it looked to me as if he took up the whole doorway, he was wearing the blue uniform of the US Air Force. I was 60 years old before I saw him again. One of the stories I learned from him was his involvement in "The Doolittle Raid".

His job was to retrofit the B-25 bombers fuel tanks, so they could carry extra fuel for this top-secret mission. As everyone knows the Mitchell Bombers had to take off some 3 or 4 hundred miles early, because the Carrier Hornet was discovered by the Japanese much earlier than expected. It turned out that those fuel tanks carried just enough fuel to save virtually every man on that mission. Almost all of those bombers made it to the coast of China!

I also met my Aunt Ruth for the first time; she waded ashore on Normandy beach as an Army nurse. She was just miles away from where Hitler killed himself and she didn't come home till the war was over.

But this story is not about them, but rather about my other Uncle, Lt. Walter J Joos, a Navigator/Bombardier, in a B-26 Marauder medium bomber named the "Mammy Yokem II". They were also known the "Bridge Busters".

He flew with the 397 Bombardment Group/ 98th Bombardier Squadron from D-Day until he was wounded over France, August 11, 1944. He safely brought down the Mammy Yokem & it's bomber formation on his plane's 58th mission. His wounds were serious enough that he flew no more, but to honor him his name was
painted on the nose of the Mammy Yokem (these bombers were also known as the "Flying Coffin") and it stayed there until wars end, when his bomber and several crews later finished their 99th mission.

The US Army Air Force was changed to the US Air Force after the war. By now Lt. Joos was Captain Joos.

The Korean War came and Captain Joos went to Korea as a Bombardier/Navigator, in a Douglas B-26, where he flew another 23 missions. I'm not sure if that tour, was in "The Mammy Yokem".

After the war he became an officer in the Strategic Air Command. In 1958 as a Major he represented the US Air Force, in the the presence of "Her MAJESTY THE QUEEN" at "The Dedication of the American Memorial Chapel" in England.

In 1959 & 1960 he was not selected to a promotion as Lt. Colonel. A letter from the Officers, NCO's and Airmen of the 815" Combat Support Group went to the Secretary of the Air Force, It failed to sway the Selection Boards decision. President Kennedy ordered that all promotions of any Officers in the Armed Forces must have College degrees, it spelled an end to my Uncle's, Military career.

He retired as a Major with 29 medals and Decorations which included a Silver Star, 6 Bronze Star's with Oak Leaf Clusters, Purple Heart, DFC and other medals and ribbons.

His tour of duty in WW 2 included such place's as Normandy (D-Day), Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes (Battle of the Bulge), Central Europe. Then 5 years later, Korea.

Uncle Walter told me some of his war stories but I'll only relate one of them for now. He told me of a mission over Central Europe, when a fighter escort group, whose tail's were painted red, were suddenly beside his formation. I was only 15 when I learned of the Tuskegee airmen. This was decades before most of America knew of them. They never lost any bomber's which they escorted during the War.

-Lew Homan, Nephew

Honorable Dudley C. Sharp
Secretary of the Air Force
Washington, 25 D. C.

Dear Mr. Sharp;

1. We, the officers and airmen of Headquarters Squadron, 815th Combat Support Group, Forbes Air Force Base, Kansas, have been recently informed of the scheduled forced retirement of our Commander, Major Walter J. Joos, 6671A.

2. Major Joos assumed command of our squadron on 11 January 1960. At that time, our unit was rated twenty-fifth out of twenty-eight units assigned in the 21st Air Division Squadron rating system. The AWOL rate was the highest on the base, with numerous military and civilian offenses also contributing to our low standing. Through Major Joos' interest, leadership and devotion to duty, our squadron

attained first place! Major Joos promoted the improvement of the squadron's recreational facilities through off duty volunteer of the airmen assigned. These facilities have been rated finest on the base by local inspectors. During the recent fund drives for Air Force Aid, Chilian Relief, Air Force Academy Stadium and United Fund, our squadron was the highest in the 21st Air Division by percentage of participation and total amount contributed. These facts are indicative of an exceptional rise in pride of unit and morale is a direct result of Major Joos' efforts as an outstanding commander.

3. It is hoped, through this correspondence, to express the sincere feelings of the squadron's personnel in behalf of Major Joos' job performance as our squadron commander. We believe it unusual for men to regard their squadron commander so highly and consider it a rare privilege to be afforded the opportunity to serve as members of this organization.

4. Major Joos is unequivocally an exceptionally fine commander and a worthwhile asset the Air Force can ill afford to lose. We request that every consideration be given to this officer in the Air Force in lieu of forced retirement.

5. This letter has been prepared without Major Joos' knowledge or solicitation.

Sincerely

HEADQUARTERS SQUADRON SECTION
815th Combat Support Group
United States Air Force

Forbes Air Force Base, Kansas

REPLY TO
ATTN OF: HSSC

SUBJECT: Letter of Appreciation

TO: Officers, NCOs, and Airmen

I wish to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks and appreciation for the excellent cooperation you have given me, during the past year, in the over all operation of the squadron.

Through your devotion to duty, interest in the squadron esprit de corps and volunteer efforts, we have watched the steady uphill climb of the squadron, from the doldrums of being the lowest rated squadron in the division, to the more desirable position of being rated along with the top five. An achievement, which I am sure, never could have come about without your pride of unit, outstanding contributions, and manner of performance.

To those officers, NCOs, and Airmen who took it upon themselves to contact the Secretary of the Air Force on my behalf, in all humility, I extend to you my heart felt gratitude. I have just recently received a letter from the Secretary of the Air Force, through the Base Commander, which in essence states "That although I was considered for promotion to Lieutenant Colonel, but was not selected as best qualified, I must be retired". They further stated that the reason why I was not selected is known only to the composite members of the board. Under these conditions there are no provisions of the law which would permit my retention. Your expression of loyalty to me in your letter to the Secretary, is considered to be the highest and most appreciated award that I have received in my entire term of service in the Air Force.

On my day of retirement, 31 January 1961, I shall leave the Air Force with many many fond memories. I shall however, always consider my year as your commander, as being the outstanding part of my Air Force Career. I have always deemed it a sincere pleasure to serve with you, and considered it an honor to have been your squadron commander.

God be with you, and may Peace and Right always he an everyday part of your life.

Most Sincerely,

WALTER J. Joos
Major, USAF
Commander

This is an copy of a Radio Broadcast made over station KJBS on July 19, 1945

THEME "ANCHORS AWEIGH" ESTABLISH. FADE. HOLD ETC.

In behalf of the Armed Forces, the DIAMOND PALACE, jewelers, at 797 Market Street, near Fourth, in downtown San Francisco, salutes the WAR HERO OF THE WEEK... with the recorded music of freedom - loving Americans - and the true story of an officer in the Army Air Forces and his heroic action over once enemy - held France. Facts disclosed in our story today were made available for release by the Ninth Air Force Public Relations Office, Station KJBS and the DIAMOND PALACE. Opening the program KATE SMITH SINGS:

MUSIC: "HE WEARS A PAIR OF SILVER WINGS'...................... KATE SMITH

Captain Walter J. Joos just came home from the European Theatre of Operations and he is enjoying a well - earned rest in Redwood City. His wife, his mother and father haven't seen him for many long months, and aside from being thankful and happy that the captain is back home they're mighty proud.

We'll tell you why in the story of our DIAMOND PALACE WAR HERO OF THE WEEK, Captain Walter J. Joos of the United States Army Air Forces! SALUTE FANFARE

Twenty - nine year old Walter Joos joined the Three hundred and ninety seventh Bombardment Group in Europe, as a B-26 bombardier in a Marauder Squadron.

Early versions of the B-26 had been nick - named the grim title, "Flying Coffins". In comparison with heavier and lighter bombers, the B-26 a medium bomber, was somewhat difficult to abandon. It took off and landed with breathtaking speed. And where a B-25 gains altitude when an engine is knocked out - a B-26 does not. In fact, upon loss of one of its two engines, a Twenty - six was, a "flying coffin" -without many minutes left to fly. For the Marauders ability to stay air borne depends upon its angle of glide. Later versions of the B-26 have overcome many of these hazards - however, let's consider specifically the hazards confronting Captain Joos, B-26 bombardier.

At his particular battle station, he sat in the nose of the bomber-known as the "greenhouse," in clear view from almost every direction, surrounded, as he was, by plexiglass. Now plexiglass is not bullet proof. Regular glass, to repel bullets must be laid or set in flat sections. But such sections prevent clear vision, so Captain Joos' bombardier cage was enclosed in plexiglass which boasts transparency, if not safety.

In an emergency, should the rest of the 7 -man crew manage to bail out, Joos would have had to crawl out of his cage into the plane and over the co-pilot's seat ... while the ship plummeted earthward.

One of the combos which effected more than it's share of Germany's defeat were the B-26 Squadrons, working in close harmony with the swift moving ground power. Seated at his Sperry bombsight, Captain Joos, part of this team, dumped his load of devastation on enemy communication lines, strong points, railroad yards and robot bomb launching sites. His group, commanded by Colonel Richard T. Coiner, hit strategic bridges in a week, knocking out nine of the fourteen bridges destroyed over the Seine River in France. The group was dubbed "The Bridge Busters," and it set medium bombardment record in the European Theater by flying one hundred missions in one hundred and nineteen days. They took part in the great pre - invasion "softening - up" campaign. And then, D - Day, Captain Joos' 397th aided invasion forces by bombing Normandie coastal defenses in powerful morning and afternoon sweeps. Of those one hundred missions made by his group, Joos made almost 60 of them so risky and yet vital to in our offensive that he was awarded 12 oak leaf clusters for taking part, or in some cases, volunteering to take part,

One Day his Squadron was assigned to Bomb a railroad bridge at Oissel, France. Captain Joos was to fly in the lead formation as lead Bombardier.

With so many missions to his credit, Joos set forth with that usual cold lump of fear somewhere in the pit of his stomach ... and not without some confidence in his own luck and ability to see him through whatever should be ahead. His confidence was justified; so were his trepidations.

A B-26 takes off fast, as we mentioned. And trouble could come as early as take - off. Should one engine decide to konk out, the plane would immediately lose altitude as fast as it gained it, But the motors were purring like kittens, and with split second timing, each bomber leaving the field individually, joined groups of three, and roared into the east. An hour or so later the target was sighted.
Captain Joos went into action.

So did the enemy. A flak barrage was sent up, and then the Captain in the green -house got it. A piece of flak tore into Joos' back and came out his shoulder!

When the first numbing shock passed he realized the plane was still on a steady keel --- even if he wasn't. His reason for sitting hunched over at the bombsight, the target, the mission became a reality again.

Captain Joos was critical man on this mission. With the target blasted, the formation headed home, but there were long stretches of enemy territory ahead. And it was up to Joos to direct the necessary evasive action from his point of vantage in the wrecked greenhouse.

The trip back may not have taken hours, but to Joos fighting unconsciousness and submission to the pain in his back, the freezing air
blowing into the torn plexiglass it was probably a lifetime.

As key man he gave every direction to the bomber formation as it winged westward across France. And finally that channel lay in sight ahead... England and home base.

One by one the bombers landed, mission completed. The formation intact, thanks to Captain Joos, (a casualty).

Recipient of not only twelve oak leave clusters and the Air Medal, Walter Joos was also awarded the BRONZE STAR for heroic devotion to duty. If Joos were here he would probably say every man of the 397th was a hero. And that may be true; yet every man of them owed his life to Joos.

Our bombers carry bottles of blood plasma for victims of enemy fire. Thousands of feet above land and sea the whole blood or plasma is administered. This is the miracle that saves American lives. Your blood may fly over Germany and bring home men who would otherwise die. Can you. think of a greater gift? A magnificent gift!

This is Station KJBS, San Francisco.