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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 to Captain Theodore John Labernik (AFSN: FV-3057792), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an A-1E Pilot Southwest of Yen Bai, North Vietnam, on 5 October 1966. On that date, Captain Labernik participated in rescue operations for two downed F-4C crew members. The mission was successful despite extremely adverse weather and hazardous mountainous terrain. It was accomplished in the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire. Captain Labernik’s courage, professionalism and complete disregard for his own personal safety were instrumental in the recovery of the downed pilots. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Labernik reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Captain

    Batallion:

    602d Fighter Squadron

    Division:

    Udorn Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand

    Action Date:

    March 13, 1967
    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special Order G-2198 (December 9, 1967)

    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 Theodore John Labernik (AFSN: FV-3057792), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as an A-1E Skyraider Pilot of the 602d Fighter Squadron, Udorn Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand, in action in Southeast Asia on 13 March 1967. On that date, Captain Labernik was maintaining airborne alert when he was scrambled to the scene of a downed helicopter. Captain Labernik led the complete search and rescue effort under rapidly deteriorating weather, approaching darkness, and intense and accurate hostile fire. With unwavering courage and complete disregard for his own safety, Captain Labernik was responsible for the elimination of all hostile resistance to the rescue effort and the successful pickup of six downed aircrew members. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Labernik has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.