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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel Donald Joseph Couture (AFSN: FR-29974), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while assigned to the Directorate of Budget, Headquarters United States Air Force from 1 July 1976 to 9 October 1978. During this period, the exemplary ability, diligence, and devotion to duty of Colonel Couture were instrumental in making a significant improvement in Air Force relations with the Appropriations and Budget Committees of the Congress of the United States. The singular distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Couture reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Captain

    Batallion:

    38th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron

    Division:

    Korat Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand

    Action Date:

    March 9, 1966
    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special Orders G-167 (May 28, 1966)

    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 Captain Donald Joseph Couture (AFSN: FR-29974), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as a member of the 38th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron, Korat Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand, in action near A Shau, Republic of Vietnam, on 9 March 1966. On that date, as a Rescue Helicopter Pilot, Captain Couture flew through continuous and intense ground fire into the face of an attacking wave of hostile forces to rescue downed aircrew members who were holding out in their crashed aircraft only forty meters from Viet Cong positions. Captain Couture’s courageous and aggressive action in the face of overwhelming odds saved the lives of three seriously wounded airmen. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Couture has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.