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The Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) was established by the Air Corps Act, 2 July 1926, Public Law No. 446, 69th Congress.
Criteria: The DFC may be awarded to any persons who, after April 6, 1917, while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight.
The performance of the act of heroism must be evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty. The extraordinary achievement must have resulted in an accomplishment so exceptional and outstanding as to clearly set the individual apart from comrades or from other persons in similar circumstances. Awards will be made only to recognize single acts of heroism or extraordinary achievement and will not be made in recognition of sustained operational activities against an armed enemy.
Description: The Medal has a bronze cross with rays on which is displayed a propeller.
The ribbon is predominately blue, with a narrow band or red bordered by white lines in the center. The edges of the ribbon are outlined with equal bands of white inside blue.
Category of Award: Personal Performance Award
Authorized: Title 10, United States Code, Sections 3749 - 6245 - 8749.
Device(s): "V" Device, Bronze and/or Silver Oak Leaf Clusters, (if applicable), and 5/16 inch gold and/or silver stars (if applicable).
References:
AR 600-8-22, Army Regulation, Military Awards; Page 41-42.
AFI 36-2803, The Air Force Military Awards and Decorations Program; Pages 79 to 80.
SECNAVINST 1650.1H, Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual; Pages 2-24 and 2-25.
COMDTINST M1650.25E, Coast Guard Military Medals and Awards Manual; Pages 2-5 and 2-6.
DoD Manual 1348.33-M, Manual of Military Decorations and Awards; Page 100.
DoD Manual 1348.33; Volume 1, Manual of Military Decorations and Awards: General Information, Medal of Honor, and Defense/Joint Decorations and Awards; Page 64.
DoD Manual 1348.33, Volume 3, Manual of Military Decorations and Awards: DoD-Wide Performance and Valor Awards; Pages 17 to 19.
Images: Distinguished Flying Cross Image courtesy of DoD Publications, Ribbon Images by With Military Honor.
Page updated May 4, 2017
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Distinguished
Flying Cross