Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel

    Batallion:

    67th Tactical Reconnaissance Group

    Division:

    Far East Air Forces

    Action Date:

    May 23, 1951

    General Headquarters Far East Command: General Orders No. 188 (July 19, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Air Force) to Lieutenant Colonel Jacob W. Dixon (AFSN: A0-5139), United States Air Force, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Pilot of a Reconnaissance Aircraft and as Commanding Officer of the 67th Tactical Reconnaissance Group, FAR EAST Air Forces, in action against enemy forces in the Republic of Korea on 23 May 1951. Fully aware of the hazards and responsibilities involved, Colonel Dixon voluntarily flew a photographic reconnaissance mission deep into enemy territory. With exceptional ability, he planned and successfully executed the mission in an area where enemy interceptor aircraft were located, although he was alone in an unarmed airplane. Colonel Dixon chose a flight plan designed primarily to attract enemy aircraft to him and to draw them from two other elements of his flight. In addition, Colonel Dixon remained over the target area thirty minutes beyond the time planned in an effort to locate a suspected target. During his flight he frequently observed enemy MiG-type aircraft. Although the mission was originally planned to afford a considerable degree of overcast protection, Colonel Dixon tenaciously continued his mission even though the overcast has dissipated. As a result of his mission, much valuable information was gained with respect to enemy air potential communications centers, and facilities. Colonel Dixon’s courage, leadership and ingenuity were in keeping with the highest tradition of the military service and reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air forces, and the United States Air Force.