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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Lieutenant Colonel Lyle Edward Stockton (AFSN: 0-17275), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force at Katum, Republic of Vietnam on 12 June 1968. On that date, Colonel Stockton flew an extremely hazardous aerial re-supply mission to deliver ammunition desperately needed by friendly forces to defend their beleaguered outpost against numerically superior opposing forces. Shortly after he landed the aircraft, the field came under intense rocket and mortar attack. Because of the danger of concussion explosions, Colonel Stockton elected to have the Loadmaster and Flight Engineer off-load the ammunition by hand while he moved the aircraft from place to place to preclude establishing a stationary target. Although this procedure required an extended ground time, Colonel Stockton realized that he had to take a calculated risk in order to accomplish the mission. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Colonel Stockton reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel

    Action Date:

    February 19, 1968
    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special Orders No. G-2190 (July 23, 1968)

    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 Lyle Edward Stockton (AFSN: 0-17275), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a C-123 Aircraft Commander at Lai Khe Airfield, Republic of Vietnam on 19 February 1968. On that date, Colonel Stockton landed his aircraft and while it was being off-loaded the airfield came under an intense mortar attack. Realizing that his aircraft would be destroyed if it remained on the ground, Colonel Stockton successfully executed a maximum performance take-off without the added thrust of both jet engines. Colonel Stockton’s action preserved a valuable aircraft and saved the lives of his fellow crewmembers. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Colonel Stockton reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.