World War II Honoree

Damon 'Rocky' Gause

Branch of Service

U.S. Army Air Force

Hometown

Fort Valley, Georgia

Honored By

Richard D. McFarland

Relationship

Friend

Joined the Army Air Corps in early 1941. Was assigned to the 17th Squadron, 27th Bombardment Group (L), flying Douglas Dauntless A-24 dive-bombers. Was ordered to the Philippines on November 20, 1941. His group held a front line position defending Bataan Peninsula. Subsequently he was assigned as a Machine Gun Company Commander with the 4th Marines. Was sent to Europe and assigned as Commander Officer of the 386th Squadron, flying P-47s. Was promoted to Major and was killed in a vertical dive in a P-47. Received the Distinguished Service Cross and a recommendation for the Silver Cross. Was posthumously awarded the air medal, bronze star, and two Presidential Unit Citations.