James Calvin Paine

First Lieutenant James C. Paine distinguished himself by gallantry as a volunteer in connection with military operations 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, as a member of a flight of aircraft providing close air support for the night rescue mission deep in the heart of the enemy’s homeland, Lieutenant Paine, in complete disregard for his personal safety, repeatedly attacked enemy forces attempting to engage the rescue party. As a result of Lieutenant Paine’s heroic efforts, enemy forces were completely isolated and their reinforcement efforts rendered totally unsuccessful. Lieutenant Paine’s courageous and aggressive action in the presence of intense surface-to-air missile activity completely disorganized the enemy forces and resulted in the mission’s successful completion. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Paine has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.