John J. Eldridge

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star Medal to John J. Eldridge, Master Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force on Koh Tang Island in the Gulf of Thailand on 15 May 1975. On that date, Sergeant Eldridge was the Pararescue Specialist of a HH-53C helicopter which flew three sorties spanning more than fourteen hours. Sergeant Eldridge and fellow crew members placed United States Marines aboard the destroyer escort U.S.S. HOLT and then escorted a damaged aircraft to friendly territory where they recovered its contingent of the United States Marines. They then delivered a contingent of United States Marines to the island despite intensive hostile ground fire. They remained close to the island and provided protective fire for another aircraft and escorted it to safety. Later in the day, they returned to the island and again braved heavy hostile fire to successfully remove a group of United States personnel. This courageous action aided in the recovery of the S.S. MAYAGUEZ and its crew. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Eldridge has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

The President of the United States takes Pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John J. Eldridge, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in the all-volunteer Joint Chiefs of Staff directed United States Army and Air Force operation against an opposing armed force during the Prisoner of War Search and Rescue Operation at Son Tay, North Vietnam, on 21 November 1970. On that date, Sergeant Eldridge, as a Paramedic-Gunner, flew deep into the heart of enemy territory in a bold night attempt to rescue American Prisoners of War. Throughout the entire mission, he manned his position with bravery and aggressiveness while maintaining the critical fire discipline necessary for properly conducting this humanitarian operation. During the return flight, he performed a vital crew member function in the pickup of a downed fighter pilot. The personal skill and extreme courage displayed by Sergeant Eldridge in this very hazardous rescue attempt contributed immeasurably to the ultimate effectiveness and tactical success of the mission. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Eldridge has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Other Award: Silver Star w/OLC (S.S. Mayaguez Incident)