“I felt it was important for Captain Langenfeld to receive the honors that he so courageously earned,” said Hensarling.  “The outstanding bravery and selfless devotion to duty, honor and country displayed by Captain Langenfeld is unquestioned.”  

On January 2, 1945 – during a strategic bombing run mission to Remagen Railroad Bridge in Germany – an electronic malfunction resulted in a “hung bomb.”   Lieutenant Langenfeld – fully aware of the danger, with total disregard to his own personal safety – sprung to action and went into the back-bay, without a parachute, attempting to manually release the 2,000 lb live bomb (the only way that the aircraft and crew could survive).   With just a few tools, Dr. Langenfeld demonstrated expert skill, bravery and airmanship by facilitating the sudden release of the bomb, saving the lives of his fellow crew. 

At the ceremony, Captain Langenfeld graciously thanked his crew and pilot and wished that they could have been a part of the ceremony.  He also recognized all the men and women in our armed forces who make the ultimate sacrifice for their nation. 

“This day is sixty years overdue,” said Hensarling.  “I am humbled and privileged to be here today to present Captain Langenfield, one of America’s Greatest Generation, with the Distinguished Flying Cross with Valor,” said Hensarling.