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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 with Combat “V” to Captain William Calvin Diehl (AFSN: AO-3053582/60982), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an F-105 Thunderchief Pilot with the 469th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, in action over North Vietnam on 27 October 1967. On that date, Major Diehl was a member of a flight assigned to attack a high priority military target. Through under almost constant missile attack, and flying through intense anti-aircraft fire he delivered his bombs precisely on his target, severely damaging the immediate area. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Major Diehl reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Major

    Batallion:

    469th Tactical Fighter Squadron

    Action Date:

    November 6, 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 with Combat “V” to Major William Calvin Diehl (AFSN: AO-3053582/60982), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an F-105 Thunderchief Pilot with the 469th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, in action over North Vietnam on 6 November 1967. On that date, Major Diehl was directed to attack the flak sites surrounding an isolated vital military target. Undaunted by an SA-2 missile attack which destroyed a fellow slight member and dense concentrations of anti-aircraft artillery over the target, Major Diehl pressed home his attack to silence several active firing sites. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Major Diehl reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.

  • Prisoner of War Medal

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Captain

    Division:

    Prisoner of War (North Vietnam)

    Action Date:

    November 7, 1967 – FOD

    Captain William Calvin Diehl (AFSN: AO-3053582/60982), United States Air Force, was held as a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from November 7, 1967 until his death in captivity.