Distinguished Flying Cross (U.S.)

The Distinguished Flying Cross is a medal awarded to any officer or enlisted member of the United States armed forces who distinguishes himself or herself in combat in support of operations by "heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight, subsequent to November 11, 1918." The decoration may also be given for an act performed prior to that date when the individual has been recommended for, but has not received the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, or Distinguished Service Medal.

Related Topics:
Medal - United States armed forces - November 11 - 1918 - Medal of Honor - Distinguished Service Cross - Navy Cross - Distinguished Service Medal

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The Distinguished Flying Cross, was authorized by an Act of Congress of July 2, 1926, an act amended by Executive Order 7786 on January 8, 1938. It was awarded first to Captain Charles Lindbergh, of the U.S. Army Corps Reserve, for his solo flight of 3600 miles across the Atlantic in 1927.

Related Topics:
Congress - July 2 - 1926 - Executive Order - January 8 - 1938 - Charles Lindbergh

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The first D.F.C. to be awarded to a Navy man was to Commander Richard E. Byrd, of the U.S. Navy Air Corps, on May 9, 1926, for his flight to and from the North Pole. Both of these aviators also received the Medal of Honor for their feats.

Related Topics:
Richard E. Byrd - North Pole - Aviator - Medal of Honor

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At least two civilians have received the award: Amelia Earhart and Eugene Ely.

Related Topics:
Amelia Earhart - Eugene Ely

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During wartime, members of the Armed Forces of friendly foreign nations serving with the United States are eligible for the D.F.C. It is also given to those who display heroism while working as instructors or students at flying schools.

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