Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
James
William
Ponsford
MIA (Cold War) KIA

Home:

Columbus

, 

Montana

James Ponsford was a member of the crew of a Navy P-40 that was shot down by Chinese fighters off the Chinese coast near Wenchow. All 16 members of the crew were lost in that action. Ponsford’s remains were subsequently recovered by a U.S. Naval vessel.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Batallion:

    Electronic Countermeasures Squadron 1

    Action Date:

    August 23, 1956
    All Hands (October 1957)

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Commander James William Ponsford (NSN: 0-319469), United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flight on the night of 23 August 1956. His devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.