The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Colonel James Ellis Bean, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as Deputy Commander for Operations of the 388th Tactical Fighter Wing at Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand , in action over North Vietnam on 18 December 1967. On that date, Colonel Bean led a flight of four F-105 Thunderchiefs assigned to destroy a highly strategic bridge in North Vietnam. Approaching the target Colonel Bean’s aircraft sustained serious damage from hostile anti-aircraft fire. He courageously elected to proceed to the target and with great determination accomplished his assigned mission. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Colonel Bean has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
-
Prisoner of War Medal
-
Distinguished Flying Cross
-
Distinguished Flying Cross
-
Prisoner of War Medal
Service:
United States Air ForceRank:
ColonelDivision:
Prisoner of War (North Vietnam)Action Date:
January 3, 1968 – March 14, 1973
Colonel James Ellis Bean, United States Air Force, was held as a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from January 3, 1968 until his release on March 14, 1973.
-
Distinguished Flying Cross
Service:
United States Air ForceRank:
ColonelDivision:
Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, ThailandAction Date:
Vietnam War
(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Colonel James Ellis Bean, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as Deputy Commander for Operations of the 388th Tactical Fighter Wing at Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand , in action over North Vietnam in 1967. His professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty under all conditions serve as an inspiration to his fellow flyers. His actions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
-
Distinguished Flying Cross
Service:
United States Air ForceRank:
ColonelDivision:
Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, ThailandAction Date:
Vietnam War
(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Colonel James Ellis Bean, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as Deputy Commander for Operations of the 388th Tactical Fighter Wing at Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand , in action over North Vietnam in 1967. His professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty under all conditions serve as an inspiration to his fellow flyers. His actions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.