Edwin Lee Atterberry

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Air Force Cross (Posthumously) to Edwin Lee Atterberry (AF-18487925), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Air Force (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in military operations against an opposing armed force as a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from 11 May 1969 to 14 May 1969. On 11 May 1969, Lieutenant Colonel Atterberry escaped from the North Vietnamese prison camp known as “The Zoo” and was recaptured twelve hours later. He was subjected to brutal torture for confessions pertaining to camp leadership, organization and details of his escape plans. He was last seen by other prisoners of war on 14 May 1969, and the North Vietnamese later reported that Lieutenant Colonel Atterberry had died. Through his extraordinary heroism and willpower, in the face of the enemy, Lieutenant Colonel Atterberry reflected the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force. (At the time he was shot down and captured, Lieutenant Colonel Atterberry was serving with the 67th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing, Udorn Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand, SEVENTH Air Force.)