Hosted by PJs in
Vietnam
Last Update:
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Site Mission: Provide Pararescue
and Air Rescue History
Airman's or Soldier's Medal Recipients
Attention to orders. Citation to accompany the award of the Airman's Medal to Sergeant Curtis W. Phythian
Sergeant Curtis W. Phythian, Jr., distinguished himself by heroism involving voluntary risk of life approximately 150 miles east of Tokyo, Japan, on 4-5 November 1968. On those dates Sergeant Phythian parachuted into rough seas, on a dark night, and made his own way to a United States merchant vessel with medical equipment. He skillfully maneuvered his parachute to land about 40 feet from the ship, after which he treated a seriously burned patient. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellowman, Sergeant Phythian has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.