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Campbell, Jack W., Captain, First Marine Aircraft Wing Fleet Marine Force, United States Marine Corps, is awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea. On 26 March 1953, Captain Campbell led a flight of Marine jet fighter bombers against heavily defended enemy bunker and mortar positions from which serious damage was being inflicted on friendly front line forces. Promptly locating the skillfully camouflaged objectives in the mountainous terrain, he initiated an individual bombing assault to mark the target for the remainder of his division. Diving through an intense barrage of defensive fire, though forced to exercise extreme caution due to the close proximity of friendly troops, he scored direct bomb hits on two active mortars causing heavy enemy casualties. He then led and directed his flight in an assault that completely demolished the now clearly defined hostile positions. Captain Campbell's exceptional accuracy in delivering his own attacks and exemplary leadership in organizing and directing the flight were largely responsible for the success of a mission that relieved a heavy pressure on United Nations forces. His courageous conduct, outstanding professional skill and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Airman First Class John R. Chapman distinguished himself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight over enemy held North Korea on 17 September 1952. Flying as gunner of a B-26 type aircraft, engaged in a night interdiction mission, Airman Chapman displayed outstanding airmanship and skill. In the vicinity of Kowon, Korea, Airman Chapman sighted a large convoy of enemy vehicles. Numerous bombing attacks were made which resulted in the destruction of eleven enemy vehicles and a fuel storage area. During these attacks intense enemy anti-aircraft fire was encountered, and through the efforts of Airman Chapman in directing the pilot in evasive action, the attacks were pressed until all ordnance was expended. As a result of this highly successful mission vital enemy supplies and transportation facilities were destroyed. By his high personal courage and devotion to duty, Airman Chapman brought great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
General Orders: All Hands (January 1953)
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade] William R. Chester, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as a Member of a Patrol Plane Crew in Patrol Squadron FORTY-SEVEN (VP-47), during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, from 2 July to 25 December 1950. Completing thirty-five combat missions during this period, he participated in daring strikes against the enemy in the face of imminent hostile anti-aircraft fire and aerial opposition. By his outstanding skill, courage and loyal devotion to duty throughout, he contributed materially to the success of his squadron and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
First Lieutenant Robert D. Childre is awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight on 8 April 1952.
General Orders: All Hands (June 1953)
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Marvin L. Claude, United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving with Patrol Squadron Six (VP-6), during operations against enemy aggressor force in Korea from 8 July 1950 to 28 January 1951. Completing thirty-five missions during this period, he participated in patrol and reconnaissance flights over an active combat area in the face of grave hazards and contributed materially to the success of his squadron. His skill, courage and devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat "V" to First Lieutenant Charles Goold Cleveland (AFSN: 18360A), United States Air Force, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against enemies of the United Nations forces in Korea, while serving as a Pilot of the 334th Fighter Interceptor Squadron, 4th Fighter Interceptor Wing, Kimpo Air Base, South Korea, in action on 5 August 1952. While flying leader in an element of two F-86's on a routine patrol in the Sinuiju area, he sighted two MiG's headed toward Antung, Manchuria across the Yalu River. Lieutenant Cleveland expertly positioned himself behind the leading MiG and fired two short bursts striking the fuselage and right wing. Before the attack could be continued the MiG's escaped across the Yalu River. Lieutenant Cleveland and his wingman resumed patrol until two MiG's were observed heading northeast. He quickly maneuvered for his attack and closed to 800 feet range firing short bursts which scored heavy hits in the fuselage and tail section. The enemy aircraft lost power after an explosion in the engine and the pilot jettisoned the canopy and ejected himself. As a result of cool thinking in a tactical situation, Lieutenant Cleveland destroyed one MiG and damaged another. Through his skilled airmanship, expert marksmanship and selfless devotion to duty he as reflected great
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Charles Goold Cleveland (AFSN: 18360A), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight on 15 September 1952, in aerial combat as the pilot of an F-86 aircraft, 4th Fighter Interceptor Wing, Fifth Air Force, against enemies of the United Nations in Korea. As flight leader in a flight giving cover to fighter-bombers, Lieutenant Cleveland intercepted four MiG's and during the attack became separated from his element. Continuing to harass the enemy with his wingman, Lieutenant Cleveland followed them through two, three-hundred and sixty degree turns, closed and fired at the number four MiG causing extensive damage. Following the MiG's through several violent evasive maneuvers he closed and fired again, causing the MiG to burst into flames and dive to the ground. Lieutenant Cleveland's superior airmanship and initiative resulted in the annihilation of one Communist MiG reflecting great credit upon himself, his comrades-in-arms of the United Nations and the United States Air Force.
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Leland Urban Clough (AFSN: AO-929398), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight on 18 November 1951, as Pilot on an unarmed, unescorted C-47 type aircraft deep into enemy territory at night on an intelligence mission of immense importance to the United Nations' effort in Korea. By flying at an extremely low altitude, up valleys, and through mountain passes, he was able to avoid detection by an enemy radar station known to be operating in the vicinity of the target, while at the same time accurately navigating to his assigned target through weather of the most hazardous nature without adequate aids to navigation. The intrepidity and daring of First Lieutenant Clough, in carrying forward to accomplishment a mission which accounted for much valuable information, is of great credit to himself, the United States Air Force, and the military service.
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Wilbur L. Coats for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight over enemy held North Korea on 6 August 1952. Flying as Pilot of a B-26 type aircraft engaged in a night interdiction mission, Captain Coats displayed outstanding airmanship and flying skill. Flying to the pre-briefed target in the vicinity of Hwanju, Korea, Captain Coats noted intense and accurate fire from enemy automatic weapons protecting the target area. This officer was directed by the Path Finder Aircraft Commander to drop his bombs in the center of the target area. While on the bomb run Captain Coats had to guide his aircraft through intense and accurate automatic weapons fire at low altitude to reach the designated dropping area. Approximately 1 minute from bomb release his aircraft was hit in the empennage section by an exploding 40mm shell which caused major damage to the aircraft. With complete awareness of the condition of his damaged aircraft, Captain Coats continued on his bomb run and dropped 100% of his bombs in the center of the target area. Several secondary explosions and two sustained fires resulted from this bomb drop. As a result of this highly successful mission, vital supplies and buildings were destroyed. By his high personal courage, outstanding ability, and devotion to duty, Captain Coats brought great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Colonel Jacqueline Cochran distinguished herself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight from 1947 to 1951. During this period, Colonel Cochran piloted an F-51 aircraft in which she established six world speed records. At Coachella Valley, CA, flying a closed-circuit 100-kilometer course, Colonel Cochran established a new speed record of 469.549 miles per hour. In other flights from Thermal, Indio, and Palm Springs, CA, Colonel Cochran established world speed records for the 3-, 15-, 500-, 1000-, and 2000-kilometer courses. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Cochran reflect great credit upon herself and the United States Air Force.
First Lieutenant John W. Coffman, United States Marines Corps Reserve is awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight against the enemy while engaged in a night intruder mission in the Sinmsk area, Korea, on the night of 19 May 1951. While serving as a pilot with a Marine All-Weather Fighter Squadron, Lieutenant Coffman, while reconnoitering the rail road in the Sinmak area, discovered an enemy train in the process of transferring its load to trucks. Disregarding intense anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Coffman pressed home a series of devastating attacks, scoring direct hits with bombs, napalm and 20 millimeter cannon fire. Three boxcars and six trucks were completely destroyed. Although unarmed, he remained in the area, and succeeded in vectoring other squadron aircraft to the scene, completing the destruction of the train with all its stores. Because of Lieutenant Coffman's superb airmanship, cool hand work, and utter disregard for his personal safety, the enemy suffered the total destruction of a locomotive, six boxcars and six trucks, plus their associated loads, and his conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant John W. Corley for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a B-26 attack bomber on an intruder mission the night of 17 December 1951. While flying armed reconnaissance over the enemy's main supply routes between Pyongyang and Sinanju, Korea, he sighted a live enemy locomotive and a number of boxcars traveling toward the front lines. Again and again Lieutenant Corley attacked this supply laden train in a series of glide-bombing and low-level strafing runs. When all his bombs and ammunition had been expended, his skill and aggressiveness had resulted directly in the total destruction of one (1) locomotive and eight (8) boxcars and the damage to twelve (12) additional boxcars. This remarkably successful effort deprived the enemy the use of vital supplies and equipment. By his outstanding courage and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Corley has brought great credit upon himself, his organization, and the United States Air Force.
The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Second Lieutenant Winon E. Corley for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a plane in Marine Attack Squadron Three Hundred Twenty-three during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 16 August 1952. Diverted from his original target, Second Lieutenant Corley skillfully led his flight of three planes in a daring attack against enemy bunkers, troops, and mortar positions, resulting in the destruction of three bunkers and four mortar positions, and the damaging of two bunkers and two mortar positions. Airborne observations after the attack disclosed twenty-nine enemy casualties. By his aggressive leadership, courage and devotion to duty, Second Lieutenant Corley upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: All Hands (September 1952)
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Machinist's Mate Second Class Glenn Cronin, Jr., United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as member of a Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron Forty-Two (VP-42). Participating in numerous missions against hostile North Korean Forces during the period 20 August 1950 to 2 February 1951, he added greatly to the success of his squadron. His courage, skill, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Completed Thirty-Five missions)
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Clyde Alfred Curtin (AFSN: AO-431127), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as pilot of an F-86 Sabrejet of the 335th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, 4th Fighter-Interceptor Wing, FIFTH Air Force, against enemies of the United Nations in Korea on 11 October 1952. While flying number two position in a flight of four F-86s in the Sinuiju area, four MiG's were sighted as they headed for the Yalu River. Maneuvering into position the F-86 flight leader made his kill with Captain Curtin providing maximum protection. Captain Curtin then positioned himself on another MiG, firing several short bursts and observing immediate hits cover the enemy aircraft. Utilizing his tactical knowledge to the utmost, as the Communist pilot attempted to escape his withering attack, Captain Curtin continued to fire until the MiG crashed into the ground with the pilot failing to eject. By this brilliant display of airmanship illustrating his proficiency as an aerial combatant Captain Curtin has reflected the highest credit upon himself and the military service. great credit upon himself, his comrades-in-arms of the United Nations and the United States Air Force.
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major [then Captain] Clyde Alfred Curtin (AFSN: AO-431127), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as pilot of an F-86 Sabrejet of the 335th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, 4th Fighter-Interceptor Wing, FIFTH Air Force, against enemies of the United Nations in Korea on 15 July 1953. On this date, Major Curtin was leading a combat air patrol along the Yalu River when friendly radar reported low flying enemy aircraft crossing the Yalu into North Korea. Just after Major Curtin had descended to low altitude seeking an engagement, he was attacked by three MiG's passing over his formation. Major Curtin quickly executed a hard Immelmann turn, placing his flight in an advantageous position to attack the enemy who were turning to attack once more. This excellently performed maneuver completely disorganized the enemy force, and they attempted to retreat across the river. As the MiG's broke formation, Major Curtin attacked one ship, and following the MiG through increasingly violent and desperate maneuvers to evade his fire, observed the MiG aircraft go into a spin. Although Major Curtin had become separated from his wingman in the fight and was alone and exposed to attack, he followed the spinning MiG down, observed the pilot to recover, and immediately go into another spin. The enemy pilot then ejected and was photographed by Major Curtin's gun camera in his descent. Upon return to his home base, Major Curtin was officially credited with the destruction of one enemy MiG-15. Major Curtin's aggressiveness, courage, and superior airmanship reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major [then Captain] Clyde Alfred Curtin (AFSN: AO-431127), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as pilot of an F-86 Sabrejet of the 335th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, 4th Fighter-Interceptor Wing, FIFTH Air Force, against enemies of the United Nations in Korea on 19 July 1953. Major Curtin was leading a flight of two F-86's on a combat air patrol deep in enemy territory near the Yalu River, when he sighted two enemy MiG'15's headed South. Immediately initiating a violent turning attack, he closed on one of the enemy aircraft. Observing they were being attacked, the MiG's turned hard towards the Yalu to escape, but Major Curtin, through outstanding airmanship and superior skill, expertly maneuvered his aircraft to cut off the last one. Closing into firing range, he opened fire on it and scored hits in the wing and fuselage with one burst of his deadly fire. The MiG turned hard in an effort to evade, but Major Curtin tenaciously kept the offensive and scored multiple hits with repeated bursts of fire. The MiG pilot, with his aircraft flaming heavily, climbed steeply in an effort to lose him,, but at the top of the climb, stalled his aircraft, and ejected just before his craft spun flaming into the ground. Upon return to his home base, Major Curtin was officially credited with the destruction of one MiG-15. By superior skill, courage, and aggressive flying ability Major Curtin reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.