Norman Louross Wells

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Air Force Cross to Norman Louross Wells (0-3037386/13430498), Captain, U.S. Air Force, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving with the 354th Tactical Fighter Squadron, 355th Tactical Fighter Wing, Takhli Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand, SEVENTH Air Force, in action near Phuc Yen, North Vietnam, on 19 July 1966. On that date, Captain Wells led a flight of F-105 Thunderchiefs against a heavily defended petroleum products storage area ten miles northwest of Hanoi. After penetrating a curtain of exploding steel to deliver his deadly ordnance on this vital target, Captain Wells then shot down one of two MiGs who were attacking the second element of the formation. After a much-needed aerial refueling, Captain Wells provided top cover for a successful rescue by helicopters of a friendly pilot who had ejected over hostile territory. Through his extraordinary heroism, superb airmanship, and aggressiveness, Captain Wells 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 Norman Louross Wells (0-3037386/13430498), Captain, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force near Yen Bay, North Vietnam, on 12 August 1966. On that date, after successfully completing his assigned mission against a target in the Thai Nguyen complex, Captain Wells observed another element of fighters being attacked by MIG-17 interceptors. Captain Wells averted the loss of the two friendly aircraft by plunging into the fight and selflessly placing his aircraft in a highly dangerous sandwich between the attacking fighters, driving one and drawing the other from their attacks on the friendly fighters. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Wells has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.