Technical Sergeant Richard H. Pambrun distinguished himself by heroism while participating in aerial flight as an
HH-53 Pararescue and Recovery Technician in South East Asia on 13 December 1970. On that date, Sergeant Pambrun flew an extremely hazardous mission in order to rescue two American pilots who had been downed deep within hostile territory. Sergeant Pambrun was equipped and prepared to be lowered to the ground by rescue hoist in the event the survivors were injured. Throughout the entire rescue operation Sergeant Pambrun continuously kept the aircraft commander informed of hostile ground fire and positions and supplied suppressive fire coverage from his mini-gun position. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Pambrun reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.