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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 James Henry Dickinson, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving with the 19th Tactical Air Support Squadron, Bien Hoa Air Base, Vietnam, in action in Pleiku Province, Republic of Vietnam, on 30 March 1966. On that date, Captain Dickinson knowingly landed his helicopter in an area dominated by hostile forces in order to rescue wounded personnel from a downed aircraft. After carrying the injured to his helicopter, and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Captain Dickinson elected to remain, under heavy fire, so that all wounded could be evacuated. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Dickinson has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Captain

    Batallion:

    19th Tactical Air Support Squadron

    Division:

    Bien Hoa Air Base, Vietnam

    Action Date:

    January 25, 1966
    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special Orders G-655 (August 20, 1966)

    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 Captain James Henry Dickinson, United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a combat aircrew member in Southeast Asia on 25 January 1966. On that date, while under intense and accurate fire from unfriendly forces, Captain Dickinson demonstrated cool courage, undaunted determination, and great resolve by exposing himself to direct air attacks against hostile positions. Persevering in the face of danger and death, he relentlessly and effectively aided in neutralizing the hostile forces. Captain Dickinson displayed outstanding heroism and devotion to duty and reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.