Vertical Flight Society Award Recipients
Captain William J. Kossler, USCG Award
The Kossler Award, established in 1951, is given for the greatest achievement in the practical application or operation of a vertical flight aircraft, the value of which has been demonstrated by actual service during the preceding year. The award honors the memory of a US Coast Guard airman, aeronautical engineer, and early advocate of helicopters in search and rescue operations.
2026
207th Aviation Battalion, Alaska Army National Guard
Alaska Army National Guard
For its extraordinary humanitarian response during Typhoon Halong. Operating in extreme weather and low visibility, the battalion executed a complex rescue mission across remote western Alaska—delivering lifesaving aid, conducting searches in isolated communities, and evacuating 501 civilians, the largest such operation in National Guard history.
Alaska Army National Guard
For its extraordinary humanitarian response during Typhoon Halong. Operating in extreme weather and low visibility, the battalion executed a complex rescue mission across remote western Alaska—delivering lifesaving aid, conducting searches in isolated communities, and evacuating 501 civilians, the largest such operation in National Guard history.
2025
CAL FIRE
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
As operator of the world’s largest civilian firefighting aviation fleet, CAL FIRE has demonstrated exceptional capability in rapid deployment, advanced rescue operations, and pioneering night aerial suppression.
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
As operator of the world’s largest civilian firefighting aviation fleet, CAL FIRE has demonstrated exceptional capability in rapid deployment, advanced rescue operations, and pioneering night aerial suppression.
2024
British Columbia Wildfire Service – Aviation Division
British Columbia Wildfire Service
For their efforts in battling the historically large 2023 wildfires in their province that year in Canada.
British Columbia Wildfire Service
For their efforts in battling the historically large 2023 wildfires in their province that year in Canada.
2023
The US Army 3-82 General Support Aviation Brigade (GSAB) Task Force Talon
US Army
For rescuing and evacuating nearly 10,000 persons during the evacuation of Kabul under enemy fire in August 2021.
US Army
For rescuing and evacuating nearly 10,000 persons during the evacuation of Kabul under enemy fire in August 2021.
The Crew of the US Coast Guard Rescue Helicopter 6036
US Coast Guard
For rescuing two aboard Fishing Vessel Glory in February 2022 sinking in Sitka Sound, Alaska, under heavy rain, fog and 55-kt (100-km/h) winds with violent downdrafts.
US Coast Guard
For rescuing two aboard Fishing Vessel Glory in February 2022 sinking in Sitka Sound, Alaska, under heavy rain, fog and 55-kt (100-km/h) winds with violent downdrafts.
2022
The Oklahoma Army National Guard Detachment 1, Company B, 2-149th General Support Aviation Battalion (GSAB), 2-25 Aviation Regiment
The Oklahoma Army National Guard
The Oklahoma Army National Guard Detachment 1, Company B, 2-149th General Support Aviation Battalion (GSAB), 2-25 Aviation Regiment supported Louisiana state-of-emergency relief efforts during the Category 4 Hurricane Ida in September 2021 by conducting numerous logistics and humanitarian missions. The unit’s CH-47F Chinooks and crew moved some 102,000 lb (46 metric tons) of critical equipment and airlifted 59 people.
The Oklahoma Army National Guard
The Oklahoma Army National Guard Detachment 1, Company B, 2-149th General Support Aviation Battalion (GSAB), 2-25 Aviation Regiment supported Louisiana state-of-emergency relief efforts during the Category 4 Hurricane Ida in September 2021 by conducting numerous logistics and humanitarian missions. The unit’s CH-47F Chinooks and crew moved some 102,000 lb (46 metric tons) of critical equipment and airlifted 59 people.
The US Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod CG6032 and CG6039 aircrews
The US Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod
The US Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod CG6032 and CG6039 aircrews answered a call for assistance from the Royal Canadian Air Force to aid a disabled ship approximately 200 nm (370 km) east of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. 142-ft (43-m) long Fishing Vessel Atlantic Destiny was taking on water in 35-ft (11-m) high seas. The two MH-60T Jayhawk crews delivered dewatering pumps and rescued 21 crew members while battling 50-kt (90-km/h) winds.
The US Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod
The US Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod CG6032 and CG6039 aircrews answered a call for assistance from the Royal Canadian Air Force to aid a disabled ship approximately 200 nm (370 km) east of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. 142-ft (43-m) long Fishing Vessel Atlantic Destiny was taking on water in 35-ft (11-m) high seas. The two MH-60T Jayhawk crews delivered dewatering pumps and rescued 21 crew members while battling 50-kt (90-km/h) winds.
2021
California Army National Guard 40th Combat Aviation Brigade
US Army
The California Army National Guard 40th Combat Aviation Brigade, which battled the raging fires that engulfed the Sierra National Forest in central California in September 2020. The CH-47 Chinook and UH-60 Black Hawk crews rescued more than 240 Mammoth Pool Reservoir campers trapped by the fires, flying in thick smoke, intense embers and 20–30 kt (37–56 km/h) winds.
US Army
The California Army National Guard 40th Combat Aviation Brigade, which battled the raging fires that engulfed the Sierra National Forest in central California in September 2020. The CH-47 Chinook and UH-60 Black Hawk crews rescued more than 240 Mammoth Pool Reservoir campers trapped by the fires, flying in thick smoke, intense embers and 20–30 kt (37–56 km/h) winds.
2020
UK Royal Air Force Joint Helicopter Command (JHC) Chinook Force and the Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS)
UK Royal Air Force
UK Royal Air Force Joint Helicopter Command (JHC) Chinook Force and the Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS), which saved the town of Whaley Bridge, Derbyshire, England.
UK Royal Air Force
UK Royal Air Force Joint Helicopter Command (JHC) Chinook Force and the Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS), which saved the town of Whaley Bridge, Derbyshire, England.
2019
Oregon Army National Guard 168th Aviation Regiment CH-47F crew
Oregon Army National Guard
On July 13, 2018, the crew successfully rescued an injured hiker and a six-person rescue team during a five-minute-long hovering two-wheel pinnacle landing at the 11,250-foot (3,730 m) summit of Mount Hood in Portland, Oregon.
Oregon Army National Guard
On July 13, 2018, the crew successfully rescued an injured hiker and a six-person rescue team during a five-minute-long hovering two-wheel pinnacle landing at the 11,250-foot (3,730 m) summit of Mount Hood in Portland, Oregon.
2018
The Crew of Detachment 1, Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 169th Aviation Regiment, General Support Aviation Battalion (GSAB)
Georgia National Guard
For supporting hurricane relief efforts in Puerto Rico.
Georgia National Guard
For supporting hurricane relief efforts in Puerto Rico.
2017
HS-1 Squadron Guerreiro 34
Brazil Navy
For its extraordinary accomplishments during the nighttime rescue of the crew of the fishing vessel Beira Mar XXV on August 11‑12, 2016.
Brazil Navy
For its extraordinary accomplishments during the nighttime rescue of the crew of the fishing vessel Beira Mar XXV on August 11‑12, 2016.
2016
LT John Post and AMT2 Joshua Andrews
For a heroic seven-hour rescue to successfully save the lives of all 12 sailors of the Minouche cargo ship, at night during Category 4 Hurricane Joaquin
For a heroic seven-hour rescue to successfully save the lives of all 12 sailors of the Minouche cargo ship, at night during Category 4 Hurricane Joaquin
2015
2nd Battalion 501st Aviation Regiment
US Army
For conducting missions in Liberia to ease suffering and combat the deadly Ebola outbreak
US Army
For conducting missions in Liberia to ease suffering and combat the deadly Ebola outbreak
The Crew of Helicopter 6029
US Coast Guard
For rescuing a seriously injured ice climber in the Cascade Mountains in central Washington State. The crew's heroic nighttime rescue in at 1 mile (1.6 km) above sea level was followed by extraction through dense fog and icing conditions
US Coast Guard
For rescuing a seriously injured ice climber in the Cascade Mountains in central Washington State. The crew's heroic nighttime rescue in at 1 mile (1.6 km) above sea level was followed by extraction through dense fog and icing conditions
2014
Uttarakhand Disaster Relief Helicopter Operators
The pilots and crews are being recognized for their heroic efforts delivering lifesaving supplies and evacuating those in need due to catastrophic flooding and landslides in June 2013; within seven days of the disaster, helicopters had airlifted more than 20,000 people and delivered over 500 tons of aid in the Indian Himalayas
The pilots and crews are being recognized for their heroic efforts delivering lifesaving supplies and evacuating those in need due to catastrophic flooding and landslides in June 2013; within seven days of the disaster, helicopters had airlifted more than 20,000 people and delivered over 500 tons of aid in the Indian Himalayas
Medium Tiltrotor Squadrons VMM-262 and VMM-265
US Marine Corps
The squadron members are being recognized for their heroic efforts delivering lifesaving supplies and evacuating those in need during Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) relief operations in the Philippines in November 2014, saving thousands of lives
US Marine Corps
The squadron members are being recognized for their heroic efforts delivering lifesaving supplies and evacuating those in need during Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) relief operations in the Philippines in November 2014, saving thousands of lives
2013
Air Station Elizabeth City
US Coast Guard
For the outstanding rescue efforts of the HMS Bounty on October 28, 2012 during Hurricane Sandy
US Coast Guard
For the outstanding rescue efforts of the HMS Bounty on October 28, 2012 during Hurricane Sandy
2012
C Company 1-52nd Aviation Regiment
US Army
The regiment was responsible for providing aerial medical evacuation across Regional Command-South in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. During the 12 month deployment, the company logged 4,130 hours and evacuated 3,536 patients
US Army
The regiment was responsible for providing aerial medical evacuation across Regional Command-South in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. During the 12 month deployment, the company logged 4,130 hours and evacuated 3,536 patients
2011
Bravo Company 1-52nd Aviation Regiment
US Army
For providing emergency relief in "Operation Denali" (Pakistan) using the CH 47 Chinook aircraft.
US Army
For providing emergency relief in "Operation Denali" (Pakistan) using the CH 47 Chinook aircraft.
2010
US Coast Guard Station/ Air Station Kodiak, Alaska- the crew of HH-60J Jayhawk
US Coast Guard
For their outstanding efforts on January 4th, 2009 in the rescue of two men from the fishing vessel American Way which went aground on Aghiyuk Island, Alaska.
US Coast Guard
For their outstanding efforts on January 4th, 2009 in the rescue of two men from the fishing vessel American Way which went aground on Aghiyuk Island, Alaska.
2009
Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162 (VMM-162)
US Marine Corps
During its seven-month deployment to Al Asad Air Base in the Anbar Province of Iraq in harsh summer conditions tested and showcased the V-22's unique ability to fly at high speeds and high altitude with extended range in varied combat scenarios.
US Marine Corps
During its seven-month deployment to Al Asad Air Base in the Anbar Province of Iraq in harsh summer conditions tested and showcased the V-22's unique ability to fly at high speeds and high altitude with extended range in varied combat scenarios.
2008
HH-60J Jayhawk Air Station Astoria (Oregon) Team
US Coast Guard
For their outstanding achievement on December 4, 2007 in the rescue of 40 souls from severe flooding of Chehalis, Washington during the Great Coastal Gale of 2007.
US Coast Guard
For their outstanding achievement on December 4, 2007 in the rescue of 40 souls from severe flooding of Chehalis, Washington during the Great Coastal Gale of 2007.
2007
Hong Kong Government Flying Service (GFS)
Hong Kong Government Flying Service
This year’s winner is the Hong Kong Government Flying Service (GFS). During the course of Typhoon Prapiroon last August 3, 2006, the pilots and crews of the GFS carried out a major and heroic rescue operation in the South China Sea that saved 91 lives from two sinking barges.
Hong Kong Government Flying Service
This year’s winner is the Hong Kong Government Flying Service (GFS). During the course of Typhoon Prapiroon last August 3, 2006, the pilots and crews of the GFS carried out a major and heroic rescue operation in the South China Sea that saved 91 lives from two sinking barges.
2006
Army National Guard Aviation
Army National Guard Aviation
For their rescue and relief efforts after hurricanes - Katrina and Rita. From August 28 through October 2, 2005 conducted disaster relief response in the Gulf Coast and New Orleans area in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, saving 15,984 residents, evacuating 13,114 medical patients, transporting 59,886 displaced civilians to safe collection points, and delivering 6,246 tons of Meals-Ready-to-Eat (MREs) and bottled water to those in distress.
Army National Guard Aviation
For their rescue and relief efforts after hurricanes - Katrina and Rita. From August 28 through October 2, 2005 conducted disaster relief response in the Gulf Coast and New Orleans area in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, saving 15,984 residents, evacuating 13,114 medical patients, transporting 59,886 displaced civilians to safe collection points, and delivering 6,246 tons of Meals-Ready-to-Eat (MREs) and bottled water to those in distress.
2005
Norrlandsflyg S-76 SAR Helicopter Crew, Lifeguard 996, Baltic Sea Rescue
Rescued a tug boat captain and the rescue swimmer of another SAR helicopter during a horrendous storm in the Baltic Sea.
Rescued a tug boat captain and the rescue swimmer of another SAR helicopter during a horrendous storm in the Baltic Sea.
2004
146th Medical Co. (Air Ambulance) HH-60L Black Hawk Crew, Hamlin, West Virginia Flood Rescue
West Virginia Army National Guard
For the rescue of an elderly woman and two youngsters from rising flood waters on November 12, 2003.
West Virginia Army National Guard
For the rescue of an elderly woman and two youngsters from rising flood waters on November 12, 2003.
2003
Killerspades- A-Company, 3rd Battalion, US Army's 101st Airborne Division
US Army
For conducting combat operations in Afghanistan and using the Apache,they performed magnificently and provided attack helicopter support to all conventional, special operations and coalition forces in the country.
US Army
For conducting combat operations in Afghanistan and using the Apache,they performed magnificently and provided attack helicopter support to all conventional, special operations and coalition forces in the country.
2002
HH-60G Pave Hawk Iceland Crew- 56th Rescue Squadron
US Airforce
For their daring rescue of Eythhor Gardarsson from the 30 ton fishing boat Svanborg.
US Airforce
For their daring rescue of Eythhor Gardarsson from the 30 ton fishing boat Svanborg.
2001
Mozambique Rescue (Operation Lichi) Helicopter Aircrews
The South African Air Force
The South African Air Force Helicopter Aircrews who participated in Operation Lichi, otherwise known as the Mozambique Rescue, by the conclusion of the harrowing operations they had rescued more than 14,390 people and transported more than 2,100 tons of medical supplies, clothing and blankets to the needy.
The South African Air Force
The South African Air Force Helicopter Aircrews who participated in Operation Lichi, otherwise known as the Mozambique Rescue, by the conclusion of the harrowing operations they had rescued more than 14,390 people and transported more than 2,100 tons of medical supplies, clothing and blankets to the needy.
2000
US Marine Corps Squadron -VMR-1, Search and Rescue Detachment, Cherry Point, NC (Pedro)
US Marine Corps Squadron VMR-1
VMR-1, HH-46 aircraft and crews flew 50 sorties and 63 flight hours in emergency conditions and recovered 399 people stranded in trees and roof tops and flooded vehicles. They also delivered nearly 15,000 pounds of food, water and medical supplies to North Caroline communities in need.
US Marine Corps Squadron VMR-1
VMR-1, HH-46 aircraft and crews flew 50 sorties and 63 flight hours in emergency conditions and recovered 399 people stranded in trees and roof tops and flooded vehicles. They also delivered nearly 15,000 pounds of food, water and medical supplies to North Caroline communities in need.
1999
Australian Search and Rescue Helicopters/Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race
1998
Flight Crew Members of Air Station Clearwater and the 920th Rescue Group at Patrick Air Force Base
The US Coast Guard and US Air Force Reserve
For the rescue of the Merchant Patriot.
The US Coast Guard and US Air Force Reserve
For the rescue of the Merchant Patriot.
1997
Flight Crew of Labrador 303, 413 Squadron
Canadian Air Force
For performing the successful rescue of the crew of the 35-foot sailboat, Alexis Le Trotteur.
Canadian Air Force
For performing the successful rescue of the crew of the 35-foot sailboat, Alexis Le Trotteur.
1996
Marine Corps Trap Team
US Marine Corps
The team performed the successful Bosnia rescue of USAF Capt. Scott O' Grady.
US Marine Corps
The team performed the successful Bosnia rescue of USAF Capt. Scott O' Grady.
1995
106th Air Rescue Group
New York Air National Guard
The crew flew a 14 1/2 hour mission, requiring ten night aerial refuelings in 60 mph winds and driving snow.
New York Air National Guard
The crew flew a 14 1/2 hour mission, requiring ten night aerial refuelings in 60 mph winds and driving snow.
1994
Walter Greaves and Eric Penttila
Era Aviation and Evergreen Helicopters
For rescuing seven people from the icy waters of the Bering Sea near Nome, Alaska.
Era Aviation and Evergreen Helicopters
For rescuing seven people from the icy waters of the Bering Sea near Nome, Alaska.
1993
Task Force 159
US Army
For the greatest achievement in practical application of or operation of rotary wing aircraft, the value of which has been demonstrated by actual service.
US Army
For the greatest achievement in practical application of or operation of rotary wing aircraft, the value of which has been demonstrated by actual service.
1992
Desert Storm First Strike Apache Team
US Army
US Army
1991
USSR Military and Civilian Helicopter Pilots
For Flying Initial Operations at Site of Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster, April-May, 1986.
For Flying Initial Operations at Site of Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster, April-May, 1986.
1990
US Coast Guard
US Coast Guard
ADM Paul A. Yost accepted the award on behalf of US Coast Guard at the 46th Annual Forum, 1990.
US Coast Guard
ADM Paul A. Yost accepted the award on behalf of US Coast Guard at the 46th Annual Forum, 1990.
1989
Crew #1472
US Coast Guard
US Coast Guard
1988
LTG Crosbie E. Saint
US Army
US Army
1987
Crew #1467
US Coast Guard
The U.S. Coast Guard crew of helicopter #1467, certainly extended the definition of practical application and operation beyond what most would consider possible.
US Coast Guard
The U.S. Coast Guard crew of helicopter #1467, certainly extended the definition of practical application and operation beyond what most would consider possible.
1986
Colombian Helicopter Pilots
Aero Expresso Bogota SA
Carlos Ayala and Santos Patino, pilots for Aero Expresso Bogota SA, represent the many Colombian helicopter pilots who helped rescue nearly 4,000 people from the aftermath of Colombia's Nevado del Ruiz volcanic eruption.
Aero Expresso Bogota SA
Carlos Ayala and Santos Patino, pilots for Aero Expresso Bogota SA, represent the many Colombian helicopter pilots who helped rescue nearly 4,000 people from the aftermath of Colombia's Nevado del Ruiz volcanic eruption.
1985
Flight Crew #1469
US Coast Guard
For its rescue operations off Cape Tolstoi, Alaska.
US Coast Guard
For its rescue operations off Cape Tolstoi, Alaska.
1984
Crew of Coast Guard Helicopter #1437
US Coast Guard
For its life-saving rescue of three people in the vicinity of Larsen Bay, Alaska.
US Coast Guard
For its life-saving rescue of three people in the vicinity of Larsen Bay, Alaska.
1983
CW3 Charles Hemphill and CW4 Frederick Loehmer
US Army
For their skill and bravery in rescuing an injured climber from Mt. Ranier.
US Army
For their skill and bravery in rescuing an injured climber from Mt. Ranier.
1982
Donald W. Usher and Melvin (Gene) E. Windsor
US Park Police
In recognition of their efforts in saving five passengers of a crashed airliner.
US Park Police
In recognition of their efforts in saving five passengers of a crashed airliner.
1981
17th District
US Coast Guard
For its overall responsibility for the planning and execution of the Prinsendam rescue on October 4, 1980. The rescue was extraordinary because of the number of survivors involved and the conditions under which they were rescued.
US Coast Guard
For its overall responsibility for the planning and execution of the Prinsendam rescue on October 4, 1980. The rescue was extraordinary because of the number of survivors involved and the conditions under which they were rescued.
1980
CAPT John Crowe
Rescue Pilot
Canadian Armed Forces
Crowe received the award in recognitton of the courage and outstanding piloting achievement he demonstrated in mid-March, 1979, in the rescue of a crewman from the disabled tanker, Kurdistan, under adverse weather conditions.
Rescue Pilot
Canadian Armed Forces
Crowe received the award in recognitton of the courage and outstanding piloting achievement he demonstrated in mid-March, 1979, in the rescue of a crewman from the disabled tanker, Kurdistan, under adverse weather conditions.
1979
Columbia Helicopters
1978
British Airways Helicopters
For the daring rescue of eight crewmen from the trawler Elinor Viking, which was disabled off the cost of Sumburgh in the Shetland Islands, by the BAH crew, Captain George Bain, commander, Captain Campbell Bosanquet, copilot; Brian Johnston, winch operator; and Captain Alistair Campbell, winchman.
For the daring rescue of eight crewmen from the trawler Elinor Viking, which was disabled off the cost of Sumburgh in the Shetland Islands, by the BAH crew, Captain George Bain, commander, Captain Campbell Bosanquet, copilot; Brian Johnston, winch operator; and Captain Alistair Campbell, winchman.
1977
UTTAS Test Command (Provisional) 101st Aviation Group(Combat)
US Army-
In recognition of outstanding achievements in deploying 348 helicopters to Europe, maintaining a 93% operational availability during extended tactical exercises and conducting the operational test and evaluation of the YUH-61 UTTAS helicopters.
US Army-
In recognition of outstanding achievements in deploying 348 helicopters to Europe, maintaining a 93% operational availability during extended tactical exercises and conducting the operational test and evaluation of the YUH-61 UTTAS helicopters.
1976
MG Manoucherh Khosrodad
Chief of Army Aviation
Imperial Army Ground Forces, Iran
For his leadership, management and technical knowledge which has been the driving force behind the successful development, training and logistical support of the Army Aviation program for Iran.
Chief of Army Aviation
Imperial Army Ground Forces, Iran
For his leadership, management and technical knowledge which has been the driving force behind the successful development, training and logistical support of the Army Aviation program for Iran.
1975
No Award Presented
1974
Colombia Air Force, HELICOL., S.A.
For the heroic and spectacular rescue of nearly 400 persons from the Avianca Building in Bogota, Colombia, when that building was razed by fire.
For the heroic and spectacular rescue of nearly 400 persons from the Avianca Building in Bogota, Colombia, when that building was razed by fire.
1973
Ralph P. Pass
Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
For application of the heavy lift helicopter for aerial delivery of concrete during the construction of the William P. Preston Lane Jr. Memorial Bridge.
Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
For application of the heavy lift helicopter for aerial delivery of concrete during the construction of the William P. Preston Lane Jr. Memorial Bridge.
1972
Jack A. Erickson
President
Erickson Air-Crane Co.
For his pioneering effort in proving the practical application of logging by helicopter.
President
Erickson Air-Crane Co.
For his pioneering effort in proving the practical application of logging by helicopter.
1971
KLM North Sea Helicopters
For development of IFR and approach capabilities to serve North Sea oil rigs and provide harbor pilot service for ships on a 24-hour basis.
For development of IFR and approach capabilities to serve North Sea oil rigs and provide harbor pilot service for ships on a 24-hour basis.
1970
58th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron (MAC)
Search and Rescue
US Air Force
For the greatest achievement in the application of rotary wing aircraft during 1969 in the rescue and relief of civilian personnel during the Tunisian flood in the fall of 1969.
Search and Rescue
US Air Force
For the greatest achievement in the application of rotary wing aircraft during 1969 in the rescue and relief of civilian personnel during the Tunisian flood in the fall of 1969.
1969
The Petroleum Industry
For making possible, through established helicopter operators, exploitations of the unique capabilities of helicopters in the oil exploration, including operations in which these vehicles were the sole means of transport.
For making possible, through established helicopter operators, exploitations of the unique capabilities of helicopters in the oil exploration, including operations in which these vehicles were the sole means of transport.
1968
Armed Forces in Southeast Asia
For innovative and imaginative operation techniques, making significant contributions to the effectiveness of the helicopter.
For innovative and imaginative operation techniques, making significant contributions to the effectiveness of the helicopter.
1967
MG Keith B. McCutcheon
Deputy Chief of Staff (Air), Headquarters
US Marine Corps
For pioneering the vertical envelopment concept of tactical military operations using helicopters, culminating in effective large-scale employment in South Vietnam by US and Allied forces.
Deputy Chief of Staff (Air), Headquarters
US Marine Corps
For pioneering the vertical envelopment concept of tactical military operations using helicopters, culminating in effective large-scale employment in South Vietnam by US and Allied forces.
1966
MG Harry W.O. Kinnard 1st Air Cav. Div.
Commanding General for the officers and men of the First Cavalry Division (Airmobile)
US Army
For organizing, developing tactics and doctrine, and deploying in effective combat service the first large military striking force using helicopters as its primary means of mobility.
Commanding General for the officers and men of the First Cavalry Division (Airmobile)
US Army
For organizing, developing tactics and doctrine, and deploying in effective combat service the first large military striking force using helicopters as its primary means of mobility.
1965
Persons Participating in NW US Rescue 12/64
US Air Force, US Army, US Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and civilian organizations
For participation in the numerous rescues and supply and resupply missions during the disastrous floods in the Northwestern United States in December, 1964.
US Air Force, US Army, US Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and civilian organizations
For participation in the numerous rescues and supply and resupply missions during the disastrous floods in the Northwestern United States in December, 1964.
1964
Helicopter Units in the Republic of Viet Nam; BG John Tolson
The Officers, Warrant Officers and Enlisted Crewmen
US Army
For developing and proving under combat conditions new and decisive operational techniques which enabled their helicopters to become a dependable means of basic mobility for the Republic of Viet Nam forces engaged in conflict. This otherwise unattainable mobility was possible due to the development of advanced tactics in suppressive fire support, evacuation of downed personnel and aircraft, armed helicopter escort and landing zone protection.
The Officers, Warrant Officers and Enlisted Crewmen
US Army
For developing and proving under combat conditions new and decisive operational techniques which enabled their helicopters to become a dependable means of basic mobility for the Republic of Viet Nam forces engaged in conflict. This otherwise unattainable mobility was possible due to the development of advanced tactics in suppressive fire support, evacuation of downed personnel and aircraft, armed helicopter escort and landing zone protection.
1963
Tactical Mobility Requirements Review Board, Ft. Bragg
US Army
For the development and demonstration of the concept that the helicopter can be a more practical, efficient and economical means of transportation than conventional systems. U. S. forces have demonstrated the helicopter's unique ability to operate in the ordinary home environment of people either in metropolitan areas or remote villages, making it possible to support defensive operations and humanitarian assistance with great discrimination and timeliness.
US Army
For the development and demonstration of the concept that the helicopter can be a more practical, efficient and economical means of transportation than conventional systems. U. S. forces have demonstrated the helicopter's unique ability to operate in the ordinary home environment of people either in metropolitan areas or remote villages, making it possible to support defensive operations and humanitarian assistance with great discrimination and timeliness.
1962
Military Air Transport Service- MATS
Scott AFB
US Air Force
For saving the lives of hundreds of airmen and civilians in the year 1961.
Scott AFB
US Air Force
For saving the lives of hundreds of airmen and civilians in the year 1961.
1961
56th Medical Platoon Air Ambulance, 57th Medical Platoon, Air Ambulance
Air Ambulance
US Army
For participation in the rescue operations in the earthquake stricken region of Southern Chile in May and June of 1960.
Air Ambulance
US Army
For participation in the rescue operations in the earthquake stricken region of Southern Chile in May and June of 1960.
1960
Marine Helicopter Squadron One (HMX-l) and Davison US Army Air Field
US Army and US Marine Corps
In recognition of both team pilots' consistent demonstration of helicopter convenience and safety through the regular transportation of the President of the United States and other government officials.
US Army and US Marine Corps
In recognition of both team pilots' consistent demonstration of helicopter convenience and safety through the regular transportation of the President of the United States and other government officials.
1959
New York Airways, Inc.
New York Airways Inc.
Since their founding in 1952 they have, in keeping with the spirit of their certificate, been a pioneering airline constantly alert to the need to develop and test operationally new techniques and equipment
New York Airways Inc.
Since their founding in 1952 they have, in keeping with the spirit of their certificate, been a pioneering airline constantly alert to the need to develop and test operationally new techniques and equipment
1958
USA Transportation Aircraft Test and Supply Activity
US Army
For greatest achievement in practical application or operation of rotary-wing aircraft, the value of which has been demonstrated in actual service during the preceding year.
US Army
For greatest achievement in practical application or operation of rotary-wing aircraft, the value of which has been demonstrated in actual service during the preceding year.
1957
Robert L. Suggs
President
Petroleum Helicopters
For greatest achievement in practical application or operation of rotary-wing aircraft, the value of which has been demonstrated in actual service during the preceding year.
President
Petroleum Helicopters
For greatest achievement in practical application or operation of rotary-wing aircraft, the value of which has been demonstrated in actual service during the preceding year.
1956
US Armed Services, United States Coast Guard and Helicopter Council of the Aircraft Industries Association
US Air Force, US Coast Guard, US Army, US Marine Corps, US Navy, The Helicopter Council of the Aircraft Industry Association
The Award was given for the rescue work performed during the floods last year, 1955, in New England, Mexico and California, at which time thousands of persons were removed from precarious and inaccessible places in flooded areas by helicopters.
US Air Force, US Coast Guard, US Army, US Marine Corps, US Navy, The Helicopter Council of the Aircraft Industry Association
The Award was given for the rescue work performed during the floods last year, 1955, in New England, Mexico and California, at which time thousands of persons were removed from precarious and inaccessible places in flooded areas by helicopters.
1955
Carlyle C. Agar
Chief Executive
Okanagan Helicopters, Ltd.
Chief Executive
Okanagan Helicopters, Ltd.
1954
RADM Clarence E. Ekstrom
US Navy
US Navy
1953
LTC George W. Herring
Aide to the Commandant, US Marine Corps
US Marine Corps
Aide to the Commandant, US Marine Corps
US Marine Corps
1952
eld ForLTC Jack Marinelli
HQ, US Army Field Forces, Fort Monroe, VA
US Army
HQ, US Army Field Forces, Fort Monroe, VA
US Army
1951
COL Richard T. Knight
Commanding Officer, Air Rescue Service, M.A.T.S.
US Air Force
Commanding Officer, Air Rescue Service, M.A.T.S.
US Air Force
Cached June 18, 2026 11:09:39 PM CDT