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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Dennis Lee Butler (AFSN: FR-29016), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as a Pilot with the 20th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, in action on 31 July 1967, near Hanoi, North Vietnam. On that date, Major Butler led a flight of two unarmed RF-101 reconnaissance aircraft and four F-4C fighter escort aircraft on a thirty mile photographic strip of the Northeast Railroad. Despite seven surface-to-air missiles and numerous, accurate and intense eighty-five millimeter flak barrages which completely surrounded his aircraft twice, Major Butler obtained one hundred percent photographic coverage of all assigned targets. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Butler has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Major

    Batallion:

    20th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron

    Action Date:

    July 28, 1967
    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special orders G-2136 (November 30, 1967)

    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 Major Dennis Lee Butler (AFSN: FR-29016), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an RF-101 Photo Reconnaissance Pilot over Southeast Asia on 28 July 1967. On that date, Major Butler flew wing position in a flight of two RF-101 aircraft and four F-4C fighter escort aircraft on a bomb damage assessment mission against numerous heavily defended, high level interest targets located along the Northeast Railroad. He exhibited exceptional combat professionalism by keeping the leader clear of all threats and still obtain one hundred percent back-up photographic coverage of all assigned objectives. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Butler reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.