Archie Knight graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Class of 1940. He retired in 1968 as a U.S. Air Force Colonel.
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Archie Knight graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Class of 1940. He retired in 1968 as a U.S. Air Force Colonel.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Air Corps) Archie Joyce Knight (ASN: 0-23236), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a Fighter Airplane of the 57th Fighter Group, NINTH Air Force, in aerial operations in the European Theater of Operations, on 13 May 1943. During a fighter mission, Major Knight’s formation was attacked by five ME-109’s of which by superior airmanship, he managed to damage at least three. During the attack his aircraft suffered considerable damage while still over enemy lines, forcing him to attempt to return to safety. Upon seeing another aircraft being attacked by an enemy fighter and jeopardizing his own safety, he engaged it and sent it crashing into the sea. As a result of his gallant action he was forced to crash land while still on territory under enemy fire. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Knight, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.