Navy Federal Credit Union

Major Tamotsu Shingaki (AFSN: FV-3117726), United States Air Force, was held as a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from August 19, 1972 until his release on March 29, 1973.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Major

    Action Date:

    August 19, 1972

    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 Tamotsu Shingaki (AFSN: FV-3117726), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an RF-4C Weapons System Operator near Kep Airfield, North Vietnam, on 19 August 1972. On that date, Major Shingaki flew as wingman in a flight assigned to obtain weather reconnaissance of two heavily defended targets. In a determined effort to accurately assess weather conditions in the target areas, Major Shingaki overflew concentrated enemy defenses until his aircraft sustained severe damage and was downed by a Surface-to-Air Missile. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Major Shingaki reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Major

    Division:

    Prisoner of War (North Vietnam)

    Action Date:

    August 1972 – March 1973

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Major Tamotsu Shingaki (AFSN: FV-3117726), United States Air Force, for heroic achievement while a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from August 1972 to March 1973. His ceaseless efforts to conduct himself strictly in accord with the Code of Conduct and policies of the prisoner organization in the difficult conditions of a communist prison clearly demonstrated his loyalty, love of country, and professionalism. By his unselfish dedication to duty, he reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.