Edward Simons Fulmer

RMWO 4th Class

By royal decree No. 26 of 17 October 1946: knight 4th class in the Military Order of William for:

Has distinguished himself in battle by performing excellent deeds of bravery, leadership and loyalty in the following way:
On 18 September 1944 he was the second pilot of a Douglas C-47 aircraft during the air raid on the Netherlands.
The airplane of lieutenant Fulmer, carrying an entire unit of parachute troops and an amount of very explosive substances, was heavily damaged by anti-aircraft fire from the Germans, causing the pilot to lose consciousness and a heavy fire. Taking over the steering wheel of the machine, he remained steadfast at his post, while the parachute troops and the crew were able to save themselves by jumping out of the plane.
Despite serious burns to the face, neck, back and arms, he managed to land the airplane in an heroic attempt to save the life of the unconscious pilot. Lieutenant Fulmer has shown extraordinary heroism and did not take his own safety into account.[5]

By General Orders No. 21 (1945) of the Headquarters, U.S. Strategic Forces in Europe:

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918,[6] takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Second Lieutenant (Air Corps) Edward Simons Fulmer, United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Co-Pilot of a C-47 transport aircraft of the 43d Troop Carrier Squadron, 315th Troop Carrier Group, 9th Air Force, during an air mission against enemy forces over Holland on 18 September 1944.
On that date, Lieutenant Fulmer was serving as Co-Pilot of a C-47 transport carrying a full complement of paratroopers as well as high explosives. The plane was badly damaged by enemy fire and the pilot rendered unconscious. Taking over the controls, Lieutenant Fulmer remained at his post until the paratroopers jumped to safety. Despite severe burns on his face, neck, back and arms, he managed to land the aircraft in an heroic effort to save the unconscious pilot's life. Upon landing, the plane burst into uncontrollable flames and Lieutenant Fulmer was able to escape through a side window.
Second Lieutenant Fulmer's unquestionable valor in aerial combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.[7]