Navy Federal Credit Union

Spessard Holland graduated from the University of Florida College of Law before entering military service. During World War I he was credited with 1 aerial victory. He served as Governor of Florida from 1941 – 1945, and as a U.S. Senator from 1946 – 1971.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army Air Service

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Air Service)

    Batallion:

    24th Aero Squadron

    Division:

    American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    October 15, 1918

    War Department, General Orders No. 37 (1919)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Air Service) Spessard Lindsey Holland, United States Army Air Service, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 24th Aero Squadron, U.S. Army Air Service, A.E.F., near Bois-de-Bantheville, France, 15 October 1918. Flying at an altitude of 400 meters five kilometers within the enemy lines, Lieutenant Holland and his pilot, Lieutenant George A. Goldthwaite, continued on their mission in spite of being harassed by anti-aircraft, securing information of great military value.