John Cerak graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Class of 1967. He was interned as a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam after he was shot down on June 27, 1972 and was held until his release on March 28, 1973.
Sponsored by:
John
P.
Cerak
POW (RVN)
November 22, 1944
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Awards Received
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Prisoner of War Medal
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Bronze Star Medal
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Prisoner of War Medal
Service:
United States Air ForceRank:
CaptainDivision:
Prisoner of War (North Vietnam)Action Date:
June 27, 1972 – March 28, 1973
Captain John P. Cerak (AFSN: 0-674542), United States Air Force, was held as a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from June 27, 1972 until his release on March 28, 1973.
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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 John P. Cerak (AFSN: 0-674542), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an A-37 fighter pilot near Phuoc Long, Republic of Vietnam, on 13 May 1970. On that date, Captain Cerak provided close air support for friendly forces who were in contact with a hostile force of unknown size. His pinpoint ordnance delivery in spite of a restricted attack heading, poor visibility, and close proximity of friendly troops evoked commendation from the Forward Air Controller. Captain Cerak’s tenacity and outstanding airmanship contributed immeasurably to the relief of the besieged friendly forces. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Cerak reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
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Bronze Star Medal
Service:
United States Air ForceRank:
CaptainDivision:
Prisoner of War (North Vietnam)Action Date:
June 27, 1972 – March 28, 1973
(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Captain John P. Cerak (AFSN: 0-674542), United States Air Force, for heroic achievement while a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from 27 June 1972 to 28 March 1973. His ceaseless efforts to conduct himself strictly in accord with the Code of Conduct and policies of the prisoner organization in the difficult conditions of a communist prison clearly demonstrated his loyalty, love of country, and professionalism. By his unselfish dedication to duty, he reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.