Medal of Honor Books

Heroes in the War on Terrorism

NAVY    -  MARINES   -  AIR FORCE   - ARMY O.E.F.  - ARMY O.I.F.

These books contain the citations for nearly all of the awards of the Silve Star and higher to members of each branch of service in the War on Terrorism. Books include photos of most recipients, some biographical data, analysis of awards by rank, unit, date, and more.

ENCYCLOPEDIA of AMERICAN MILITARY HEROES

Buried at A.B.M.C. Meuse-Argonne
  A-26-13  

Born: May 19, 1897 at Phoenix, AZ

Entered Service in the US Army Air Service from Phoenix, AZ

Earned The Medal of Honor During World War I For heroism September 29, 1918 in the Air near Murvaux, France

Second Lieutenant Luke was a pilot in the 27th Aero Squadron. Having previously destroyed a number of enemy aircraft in 17 days, he went on a patrol in his SPAD after German observation balloons on 29 September 1918. Though pursued by eight German planes and under heavy ground fire, he unhesitatingly attacked and shot down three German balloons. Severely wounded, he descended to within 50 meters of the ground near Murvaux, France and fired upon enemy troops, killing six and wounding as many more. Forced to make a landing and surrounded on all sides by the enemy who called on him to surrender, he drew his pistol and gallantly resisted capture until killed by enemy fire.
(NOTE: He was also awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. In a period of less than three weeks, during one of which he did not fly, Second Lieutenant Luke was credited with destroying 14 balloons and five enemy airplanes.)