World War II Honoree

John C. Fouche

Branch of Service

U.S. Army Air Force

Hometown

Maryville, Tennessee

Honored By

Family

Relationship

Self

John Calvin Fouche Jr enlisted in the Army Air Corps on April 6, 1943 at Keesler Field in Biloxi, Mississippi. Enrolled in the USAAF Aviation Cadet Training Program, Aviation Cadet Fouche underwent an extensive training program and ultimately attended the United States Army Air Forces Bombardier School. Assigned to the 341st Bomb Squadron, 97th Bomb Group, 15th Air Force, 2nd Lt Fouche flew combat missions during late 1944 through the end of the war. For his service, he was awarded the following: October 7, 1944 – December 11, 1944 Air Medal December 19, 1944 – March 14, 1945 Oak Leaf Cluster March 15, 1945 – April 15, 1945 Oak Leaf Cluster 2nd. During a bombing mission to Vienna, Austria targeting the Schwechat Oil Refinery on March 16, 1945 Lt Fouche’s B-17 (44-6181) was heavily damaged by enemy anti-aircraft fire and he was wounded in action during the engagement. For his service on this mission was awarded the Purple Heart and Distinguished Flying Cross.