Duane D. Hackney

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Air Force Cross to Duane D. Hackney, Airman Second Class, U.S. Air Force, for extraordinary heroism in military operations against an opposing armed force while serving with the 37th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron, 3d Air Rescue and Recovery Group, DaNang Air Base, Vietnam, SEVENTH Air Force, as a Paramedic (Pararescueman) on an unarmed HH-3E Rescue Helicopter near Mu Gia Pass, North Vietnam, on 6 February 1967. On that date, Airman Hackney flew two sorties in a heavily defended hostile area. On the first sortie, despite the presence of armed forces known to be hostile, entrenched in the vicinity, Airman Hackney volunteered to be lowered into the jungle to search for the survivor. He searched until the controlling Search and Rescue agency ordered an evacuation of the rescue crew. On the second sortie, Airman Hackney located the downed pilot, who was hoisted into the helicopter. As the rescue crew departed the area, intense and accurate 37-mm. flak tore into the helicopter amidships, causing extensive damage and a raging fire aboard the craft. With complete disregard for his own safety, Airman Hackney fitted his parachute to the rescued man. In this moment of impending disaster, Airman Hackney chose to place his responsibility to the survivor above his own life. The courageous Pararescueman located another parachute for himself and had just slipped his arms through the harness when a second 37MM round struck the crippled aircraft, sending it out of control. The force of the explosion blew Airman Hackney through the open cargo door and, though stunned, he managed to deploy the unbuckled parachute and make a successful landing. He was later recovered by a companion helicopter. Through his extraordinary heroism, superb airmanship, and aggressiveness in the face of hostile forces, Airman Hackney reflected the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

The President of the United States takes Pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Duane D. Hackney, Airman First Class, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as a Pararescue Specialist during a rocket attack on DaNang Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, on 15 July 1967. On that date, Airman Hackney entered the most heavily damaged area while the attack was occurring and was personally responsible for saving the lives of six men. Airman Hackney unhesitantly approached burning aircraft and exploding ordnance to rescue wounded personnel. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Airman Hackney has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Other Award: Air Force Cross (Vietnam)