Fred Vann Cherry

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Air Force Cross to Fred Vann Cherry (AO-2225916/AF-13416845), Colonel, U.S. Air Force, for extraordinary heroism in military operations against an opposing armed force as a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from 15 August 1967 to 15 November 1967. During this period, Colonel Cherry demonstrated his extremely strong personal fortitude and maximum persistence in the face of severe enemy harassment and torture, suffering critical injuries and wounds. Through his extraordinary heroism and willpower, in the face of the enemy, Colonel Cherry reflected the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force. (At the time he was shot down on 22 October 1965, Colonel Cherry was serving as an F-105 Pilot with the 35th Tactical Fighter Squadron.)