Distinguished Flying Cross

 

Awarded pursuant to Section 3749 of title 10, United States Code, “Distinguished flying cross: award; limitations,” March 1995 (U.S. Army Service members), Section 6245 of title 10, United States Code, “Distinguished flying cross: award; limitations,” March 1995 (U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps Service members), Section 8749 of title 10, United States Code, “Distinguished flying cross: award; limitations,” March 1995 (U.S. Air Force Service members), and Section 492a, 14 U.S.C. (reference (nnn)) (U.S. Coast Guard Service members). The Distinguished FIying Cross maybe awarded to any persons who, after April 6, 1917, while serving in any capacity with the United States Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight.

In the Navy and USMC, the performance of an act of heroism after April, 1974, shall be recognized by a “V” device worn on the suspension and service ribbon of the medal.
BACKGROUND
The Distinguished Flying Cross was established in the Air Corps Act (Act of Congress, 2 July 1926, Public Law No. 446, 69th Congress). This act provided for award "to any person, while serving in any capacity with the Air Corps of the Army of the United States, including the National Guard and the Organized Reserves, or with the United States Navy, since the 6th day of April 1917, has distinguished, or who, after the approval of this Act, distinguishes himself by heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight."

Initial awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross were made to persons who made record breaking long distance and endurance flights and who set altitude records. The Secretary of War authorized the first Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Charles A. Lindbergh in a letter dated 31 May 1927. With the support of the Secretary of War, the Wright Brothers retroactively received the Distinguished Flying Cross. This award required a special Act of Congress, since the law precluded award to civilians.