Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Ensign

Unit:

Fighting Squadron Eighteen (VF-18), U.S.S. Intrepid (CV-11) (Fighting Squadron Eighteen (VF-18), U.S.S. Intrepid (CV-11))

Awarded on:

April 1945

Citation:
"For extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron Eighteen (VF-18), embarked from the U.S.S. Intrepid (CV-11), during a raid by carrier-based planes on northern Formosa on 12 October 1944. Ensign Mollenhauer flew his fighter-bomber through intensive antiaircraft fire to carry out an effective bombing attack on a large and important enemy aircraft hangar. During this attack, he boldly engaged a superior force of Japanese airplanes and, despite the great odds against him, shot down five enemy craft. He not only contributed to the complete rout of the enemy formation, but, in two instances, saved the lives of his teammates. Ensign Mollenhauer's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 337 (April 1945).