Hosted by PJs in
Vietnam
Last Update:
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Site Mission: Provide Pararescue
and Air Rescue History
Distinguished Flying Cross Recipient
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Attention to orders. Citation to accompany the award of the
Distinguished Flying Cross, First Oak Leaf Cluster
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Staff Sergeant Joseph S. Stanaland distinguished himself by heroism while participating in aerial flight as an HH-53 Rescue Helicopter Pararescue and Recovery Technician in Southeast Asia on 3 January 1971. On that date, Sergeant Stanaland flew an extremely dangerous mission in order to successfully rescue two American pilots who had been downed deep within hostile territory. Throughout the entire rescue operation, Sergeant Stanaland effectively returned fire from his exposed gun position on the ramp, and calmly relayed the hostile gun positions to the aircraft commander. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Stanaland reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.