Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Prisoner of War Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Ensign

    Batallion:

    Fighting Squadron 91 (VF-91)

    Division:

    Prisoner of War (North Korea)

    Action Date:

    March 1, 1953 – September 1, 1953

    Ensign Edwin Allen Nixon, Jr. (NSN: 0-552869), United States Navy, was captured by North Korean Forces after his aircraft was shot down over Korea 1 March 1953, and was held as a Prisoner of War until his release in Operation Big Switch on 1 September 1953.

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Ensign

    Batallion:

    Fighter Squadron 91 (VF-91)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Philippine Sea

    Action Date:

    March 1, 1953

    Board Serial 512 (June 11, 1953)

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Ensign Edwin Allen Nixon, Jr. (NSN: 0-552869), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a Jet Fighter Plane in Fighter Squadron NINETY-ONE (VF-91), based on board the U.S.S. PHILIPPINE SEA, during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 1 March 1953. Participating in an armed reconnaissance mission over the heavily defended enemy supply and build-up area between Hamhung and Wonsan, Ensign Nixon carried out a devastating attack upon a vital railroad bridge on the main east coast supply route in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire. Although his plane was repeatedly hit by heavy enemy fire, he continued to press home his dive-bombing attack with unerring accuracy until his aircraft plunged to the ground, exploding on impact. His exceptional courage, marked ability as an airman and selfless devotion to duty reflect great credit upon Ensign Nixon and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.