The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel Harry M. Chapman, United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander, 460th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing, Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, from 21 June 1969 to 1 May 1970. In this important assignment the leadership, exemplary foresight, and ceaseless efforts consistently demonstrated by Colonel Chapman produced contributions of critical significance to the United States and the Republic of Vietnam in combating the forces of aggression in Southeast Asia. His superb management of personnel and natural resources and effective employment of the most diversified tactical wing in the United States Air Force established the 460th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing as one of the outstanding and effective wings in this combat theater of operations. Through his constant diligence, expert leadership, sound judgment and superior operational management, the 460th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing established its outstanding combat record while sustaining minimal losses, and establishing one of the finest safety records in SEVENTH Air Force. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Chapman reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
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Awards Received
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Legion of Merit
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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 a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Colonel Harry M. Chapman, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an RF-4C Aircraft Commander in Southeast Asia on 19 December 1969. On that date, Colonel Chapman flew an unarmed reconnaissance mission over hostile territory to obtain vital photographic intelligence. Despite the adverse weather and extremely hostile environment, Colonel Chapman skillfully and aggressively obtained complete photographic coverage of the assigned target. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Chapman reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
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Distinguished Flying Cross
Service:
United States Army Air ForcesRank:
First Lieutenant (Air Corps)Action Date:
World War II
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 (Air Corps) Harry M. Chapman, United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight over enemy occupied Continental Europe during World War II. The skillful and zealous manner in which he has sought out the enemy and engaged him, his devotion to duty and courage under all conditions serve as an inspiration to his fellow flyers. His actions on all these occasions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
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Legion of Merit
Service:
United States Air ForceRank:
Brigadier GeneralAction Date:
June 1, 1970 – October 31, 1972
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Brigadier General Harry M. Chapman, United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States WHILE ASSIGNED TO THE Directorate of Plans, Headquarters United States Air Force, from 1 June 1970 to 31 October 1972. During this period, his exemplary ability, foresight, professional competence and devotion to duty contributed significantly toward insuring effective, comprehensive and sound Air Force and Joint Chiefs of Staff positions and plans covering the entire spectrum of political-military involvements. These individually distinctive achievements were instrumental factors in the resolution of many complex issues of paramount importance in the national security of the United States. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Chapman reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.