Navy Federal Credit Union

James Horsley graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Class of 1950. He retired as a U.S. Air Force Major.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Major

    Action Date:

    Vietnam War

    United States Military Academy Register of Graduates

    (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 Major James Clarence Horsley, Jr., United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an F-100 pilot near Chu Lai, Quang Tin Province, Republic of Vietnam, on 23 May 1969. On that date, Major Horsley was leading a flight of two F-100s which was scrambled from the alert facility at Phu Cat Air Base to answer a request for immediate close air support. In the extremely hazardous conditions Major Horsley made repeated, accurate, low level ordnance deliveries in order to suppress hostile fire and allow the evacuation of wounded friendly forces. The aerial skill and professional ability exhibited by Major Horsley saved numerous friendly lives. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Major Horsley reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.