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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel Carol Dee Hughes (AFSN: 0-67060), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Deputy Commander for Support, 5010th Combat Support Group, and as Commander, 343d Combat Support Group, Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, from 30 August 1980 to 12 July 1983. Colonel Hughes was in the forefront of transforming the 5010th Combat Support Group into the 343d Composite Wing with a tactical mission. He greatly enhanced the 343d Composite Wing’s performance and that of the tenants of Eielson Air Force Base by his judicious use of personnel and resources under his command. His in-house construction resulted in a $15.5-million savings and enabled the new wing to start up immediately. The superior initiative, outstanding leadership, and personal endeavor displayed by Colonel Hughes reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Captain

    Action Date:

    August 31, 1968
    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special Orders No. G-429 (January 31, 1969)

    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 Carol Dee Hughes (AFSN: 0-67060), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a HC-123 Aircraft Commander near Quang Ngai, Republic of Vietnam, on 31 August 1968. On that date, Captain Hughes flew his unarmed aircraft on a vital low-level defoliation mission against a known hostile troops staging area. Although intense ground fire caused serious damage to his aircraft, Captain Hughes elected to stay with his formation and to make a second pass over the same target. Despite the intense resistance, he successfully completed his mission, and by so doing, deprived hostile forces of vital jungle cover for their operations, The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Hughes reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Colonel

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Colonel Carol Dee Hughes (AFSN: 0-67060), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States.