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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 Captain Alex Walter Sapyta (AFSN: FR-75067), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with aerial operations against an opposing armed force as the lead Air Craft Commander of two F4C’s of the 389th Tactical Fighter Squadron, DaNang Air Base, Vietnam, Pacific Air Forces, in action near Hoi An, South Vietnam, on 29 August 1967. On that date, Captain Sapyta led his flight against a battalion of the 3d North Vietnamese Army Regiment which was attacking Hoi An Sector Headquarters. Unfavorable weather conditions made aerial maneuvering extremely difficult and dangerous in the target area due to intense fire. Captain Sapyta received a hit through his left wing early in the attack; however, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, he made repeated passes on the hostile force, completely routing them and destroying six of their boats. Captain Sapyta’s quick action and aerial skill is credited with saving Hoi An at a time when it was weakly defended. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Sapyta has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Captain

    Action Date:

    April 21, 1967
    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special Order G-1473 (September 22, 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 Captain Alex Walter Sapyta (AFSN: FR-75067), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as the Aircraft Commander of an F-4C “Phantom II” Tactical Jet Fighter near Dong Hoi, North Vietnam, on 21 April 1967. On that date, while on an armed reconnaissance mission he helped locate and then attacked numerous hostile barges and a truck convoy. Despite heavy defensive ground fire and poor weather Captain Sapyta made pinpoint deliveries of all of his ordnance; catering a ferry approach, destroying two barges and two trucks, damaging several more trucks, and precipitating several large secondary explosions. Captain Sapyta also gave a timely accurate warning to another aircraft saving the aircraft and its crew from possible destruction. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Sapyta reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.