Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Captain

    Division:

    5th Air Force

    Action Date:

    June 17, 1951

    Headquarters, Far East Air Forces, General Orders No. 603 (December 24, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Donald J. Ferris (AFSN: 15980A), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against an enemy as Pilot of an F-80 Shooting Star Fighter-Bomber of the FIFTH Air Force, and as Flight Leader on a mission over Korea on 17 June 1951. On that date, Captain Ferris attacked a vital rail-bridge north of Sariwon, Korea. In the face of intense anti-aircraft fire, Captain Ferris received two direct hits on his aircraft; one in the tail section and one in the cockpit. He was wounded in the arm and neck and his instruments were destroyed. Despite the injuries to himself and the damage to his aircraft, he continued the attack, making repeated strafing passes at the anti-aircraft gun positions in the area. He broke off his attacks only when forced to by shock, loss of blood, and smoke in the cockpit. Captain Ferris delegated command to his element leader and followed him to home base for a successful landing. As a result of this highly effective mission, important rail installations were destroyed and several gun emplacements knocked out. Captain Ferris’ personal courage, flying skill and devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself, the FAR EAST Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.