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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 the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” to Sergeant Richard Ivars, United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a C-130E Loadmaster for the 21st Tactical Airlift Squadron near Kampong Trech, Cambodia, on 29 April 1972. On that date, Sergeant Ivars flew a night tactical emergency low level airdrop of critically needed ammunition and supplies to a besieged concentration of allied forces located in a heavily defended hostile area, With complete disregard for his own personal safety, in spite of intense ground fire and marginal visibility, Sergeant Ivars performed his aircrew duties with exact precision, resulting in a completely successful mission, The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Ivars reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Action Date:

    May 25, 1972
    Citation Courtesy of the Distinguished Flying Cross Society – www.dfcsociety.org

    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 to Sergeant Richard Ivars, United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial fight as a C-130E Loadmaster for the 21st Tactical Airlift Squadron at Kontum Airfield, Republic of Vietnam, on 25 May 1972, On that date, Sergeant Ivars flew an emergency night mission into Konturn Airfield to recover an Air Force mobility team and a combat control team. With total disregard for his own personal safety, in spite of heavy antiaircraft fire, mortars, and intense automatic weapons activity, Sergeant Ivars performed his aircrew duties with exact precision, saving the lives of fifteen men. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Ivars reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.