Captain Darrell Lindsey: The Sole Medal of Honor Recipient from B-26 Marauder

During World War II, the United States Army Air Forces played a crucial role in the Allied invasion of France in 1944. Among its two principal air arms, the Eighth Air Force is often noted for its strategic bombing campaigns, while the Ninth Air Force executed vital tactical missions. One standout among the Ninth Air Force was Captain Darrell Robins Lindsey, the only crewman of the Martin B-26 Marauder to be awarded the Medal of Honor.

Lindsey’s military journey began on January 16, 1942, when he enlisted as an Army Air Corps cadet in Des Moines, Iowa. His training soon took him to MacDill Field, Florida, where he first encountered the B-26. He continued his education at Kirtland Field, New Mexico, and earned his second lieutenant commission on August 27, 1942. By December 1943, he had risen to the rank of captain and was assigned to the 585th Squadron of the 384th Bombardment Group (Medium) at Kellogg Field, Michigan.

On March 10, 1944, the 394th Group, to which Lindsey was attached, arrived at Boreham, England, integrated into the Ninth Air Force. As a flight leader, Lindsey led missions targeting German military installations and supply routes, significantly contributing to the Allied advance following the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944.

The Ninth Air Force’s operations often faced fierce opposition from German anti-aircraft guns. Lindsey’s squadron frequently bombed targets from altitudes between 10,000 and 12,000 feet, yet they endured heavy flak during missions. By August 9, 1944, he had completed 46 missions, amassing 143 combat hours.

The backdrop for one of Lindsey’s most daring missions was the German counteroffensive to recapture the towns of Mortain and Avranches. On this occasion, he led a formation of 30 B-26 Marauders to bomb a critical railroad bridge at L’Isle-Adam, situated approximately 25 kilometers northwest of Paris. This vital junction was key for the Germans to transport troops and supplies for their counterattack.

As Lindsey’s formation approached the target, they were met with intense anti-aircraft fire, particularly from the formidable 88mm guns. Utilizing evasive maneuvers, Lindsey managed to navigate through much of the flak; however, his aircraft sustained damage, and one of the engines caught fire. Despite this, he remained resolute in his mission.

With flames engulfing his right engine and the aircraft’s fuel tanks at risk of exploding, Lindsey pressed on, leading his squadron to successfully drop their 2,000-pound bombs on the bridge. After executing the bombing run, he ordered his crew to bail out, prioritizing their safety. Lindsey was the last one to leave the aircraft, and as he prepared to exit, the right fuel tank exploded. The B-26 then plunged to the ground, resulting in a catastrophic explosion.

This mission was a pivotal moment in the campaign, contributing to the disruption of German supply lines and ultimately aiding in the failure of their counterattack. The success of the 394th Bomb Group during this period earned them a Distinguished Unit Citation.

On May 30, 1945, Lindsey’s bravery was posthumously recognized when his widow received the Medal of Honor from Major Gen. Robert B. Williams, commander of the Second Air Force. The citation highlighted Lindsey’s extraordinary courage: “All who are alive today from this plane owe their lives to the fact that Captain Lindsey remained cool and showed supreme courage in this emergency.”

Captain Lindsey’s legacy as a hero remains a significant part of military history, honoring the sacrifice and bravery of those who served during one of the most challenging periods of the 20th century.