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 Lieutenant Colonel Earl L. Trimble, Jr. (AFSN: FR-42931), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an A-1E Skyraider Pilot in Southeast Asia on 26 October 1967. On that date, Colonel Trimble led a Search and Rescue effort for a T-28 pilot downed by intense ground fire. The scene of the rescue attempt was hampered by restricted visibility, approaching darkness, mountainous terrain and ground fire. Nevertheless, Colonel Trimble exposed himself to these hazards for more than one hour and effected the rescue of the pilot under the worst conditions possible. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Trimble reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Colonel Earl L. Trimble, Jr. (AFSN: FR-42931), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an A-1E Skyraider Pilot in Southeast Asia on 7 July 1967. On that date, Colonel Trimble participated on a large scale rescue effort for the survivors of an Army Long Range Patrol in danger of being annihilated by an overwhelming hostile force. Colonel Trimble risked his life for over an hour while operating in a narrow valley under a one thousand foot overcast and in the face of withering ground fire which held the rescue force at bay until suppressed by Colonel Trimble and his flight leader. During this time he made numerous strafing, rocket and bomb passes which silenced the hostile gunners and permitted the pick up of eleven survivors. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Trimble reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.