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 Donald Myrick Russell (AFSN: FV-3022028), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an F-105 Thunderchief pilot over North Vietnam on 17 November 1967. On that date, Major Russell was element lead of a flight on an assigned mission to attack a high priority military target. He expertly led his flight through constant hostile artillery fire and successfully placed their ordnance directly on target. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Russell reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Silver Star
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Silver Star
Service:
United States Air ForceRank:
MajorBatallion:
333d Tactical Fighter SquadronRegiment:
355th Tactical Fighter WingDivision:
7th Air ForceAction Date:
October 18, 1967
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 Major Donald Myrick Russell (AFSN: FV-3022028), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force as pilot of an F-105 Thunderchief aircraft, 333d Tactical Fighter Squadron, 355th Tactical Fighter Wing, SEVENTH Air Force, over North Vietnam on 18 October 1967. On that date, Major Russell flew through intense barrages of anti-aircraft fire to place his ordnance directly on his assigned target. He then remained in the heavily defended target area to destroy a hostile aircraft that was positioning for an attack on another F-105. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Russell has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.