In the vast skies over the Pacific during World War II, bravery was not measured in words but in actions taken when survival seemed impossible. Major Ralph Cheli of the United States Army Air Forces exemplified that kind of courage. A squadron commander, combat leader, husband, and father, Cheli made a decision on August 18, 1943, that would cost him his life but save his men. For his extraordinary gallantry, he was awarded the Medal of Honor — a recognition that stands as a testament to sacrifice above and beyond the call of duty.
His story is one of leadership, resolve, and unshakable devotion to mission and comrades.
Early Life and Struggles: Ralph Cheli was born on October 29, 1919, in San Francisco, California, to Robert Alfred Cheli and Julia Martinelli Cheli. Raised with strong family values and ambition, he pursued higher education at Lehigh University as a member of the Class of 1941.
However, as global tensions intensified and war loomed on the horizon, Cheli felt called to serve. In February 1940, during his junior year, he left Lehigh to enlist as an aviation cadet in the U.S. Army Air Forces. It was a bold decision — leaving behind academic comfort for the uncertainty of military life — but it demonstrated the same commitment to duty that would later define his legacy.
He trained rigorously at Tulsa, Randolph Field in Texas, and Kelly Field, mastering the demanding skills required of a military aviator.
Military Enlistment and Heroics: Commissioned as a second lieutenant in November 1940, Cheli began flying B-17 Flying Fortresses before transitioning to B-25 Mitchell bombers. After the United States entered World War II, he flew anti-submarine patrols in the Caribbean and quickly rose through the ranks due to his leadership and skill.
By mid-1942, Cheli had joined the 38th Bombardment Group and became Operations Officer of the 405th Bomb Squadron, known as the “Green Dragons.” In August 1942, he led one of the first air movements of B-25 bombers to the Southwest Pacific theater — a critical reinforcement effort.
Promoted to major in March 1943, Cheli commanded the 405th Bomb Squadron during the pivotal Battle of the Bismarck Sea. On March 3, 1943, he led one of the first daylight “masthead” low-level bombing attacks against a Japanese convoy — a dangerous and innovative tactic that proved devastatingly effective.
By the summer of 1943, Cheli had flown 39 combat missions, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal. Yet his defining act of heroism was still to come.
Defining Moment: On August 18, 1943, Major Cheli led 30 B-25 Mitchell bombers on a daring low-level attack against heavily fortified Japanese airfields near Wewak, New Guinea. The mission required flying over 500 miles into enemy territory — the deepest penetration yet by medium bombers in that theater.
While descending to just 150 feet above the ground to begin the bombing run, Japanese fighter aircraft attacked. Concentrated enemy fire struck Cheli’s aircraft, setting his right engine ablaze while still two miles from the target.
He had a choice.
With his speed and altitude, he could have pulled up, bailed out, and saved himself. But doing so would have broken formation, left his squadron exposed, and jeopardized the entire mission.
Knowing his aircraft was doomed, Cheli chose to continue leading the attack in a burning bomber.
From minimum altitude, his squadron delivered a devastating bombing and strafing run. Only after ensuring mission completion did Cheli instruct his wingman to assume command. His aircraft then crashed into the sea.
Initially believed killed in the crash, postwar evidence revealed that Cheli survived and was captured. He was held as a prisoner of war at Rabaul and was executed by his captors on March 6, 1944.
For his conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity, he was awarded the Medal of Honor in October 1943.
Post-War Legacy and Family: Major Cheli was survived by his wife, Geraldine Reilly Cheli, and their infant son, Ralph Jr. Though he did not return home, his legacy endured.
His alma mater honored him by naming its Arnold Air Society chapter after him. The United States Air Force later operated the Cheli Air Force Station near Maywood, California, from 1947 to 1961 in his memory.
Today, what are believed to be his remains rest at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri — a solemn reminder of sacrifice paid in full.
Military Awards and Decorations: Major Ralph Cheli’s decorations reflect both valor and sacrifice:
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Medal of Honor (posthumous)
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Bronze Star Medal (with oak leaf clusters)
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Purple Heart (posthumous)
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Air Medal
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Prisoner of War Medal (posthumous)
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American Defense Service Medal
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American Campaign Medal
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Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal (with three bronze campaign stars)
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World War II Victory Medal (posthumous)
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Army Air Forces Pilot Badge
The Medal of Honor citation recognizes his decision to remain in his burning aircraft, stating that although a crash was inevitable, he courageously elected to continue leading the attack — placing mission and men above self.
Major Ralph Cheli’s story is not merely one of battlefield heroics — it is a portrait of leadership under unimaginable pressure. When confronted with certain death, he chose responsibility over survival. He chose his squadron over himself.
For families who understand military sacrifice — like so many in your FYNF community — his legacy resonates deeply. It reminds us that valor is not spontaneous; it is built through character, conviction, and commitment long before the moment of crisis.
Major Cheli did not live to see victory in World War II. But his courage helped secure it.
And that is the ultimate measure of honor.