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 First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Harry Arthur Halverson (ASN: 0-11444), U.S. Army Air Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight. From 1 – 7 January 1929. Lieutenant Halverson, with Second Lieutenant Elwood R. Quesada, Air Corps, acted as relief pilot of the air plane Question Mark on the refueling flight, at and near Los Angeles, California. which remained in the air a total of 150 hours 40 minutes and 15 seconds, a period of continuous flight longer than any previous flight ever accomplished. by their endurance, resourcefulness and determination they demonstrated future possibilities in aviation which were heretofore not appreciated, and thus reflected great credit upon themselves and the Army of the United States.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Colonel (Air Corps)

    Regiment:

    First Provisional Group (H)

    Division:

    Middle East Air Force

    Action Date:

    June 12, 1942

    Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Middle East, General Orders No. 17 (September 23, 1942)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Colonel (Air Corps) Harry Arthur Halverson (ASN: 0-11444), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action with the enemy while serving with the First Provisional Group (Heavy), Middle East Air Forces. On 12 June 1942, after a long and arduous flight to the initial point, he, through superior leadership and against enemy fighter opposition, successfully attacked with his formation of heavy bombardment airplanes a large refinery in the Rumanian oil fields. The attack was most destructive to enemy installations and so skillfully planned as to render enemy opposition entirely ineffective. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Colonel Halverson, 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.