Distinguished Flying Cross

Authorized on July 2, 1926, and amended January 8, 1938. the Distinguished Flying Cross is awarded to any officer and enlisted member of the United States Armed Forces who shall distinguish themselves by heroism in an aerial flight, subsequent to November 11, 1918. The first award was made to Capt. Charles A. Lindbergh for his solo flight across the Atlantic. Order recipients include Commander Richard E. Byrd, for his historic flight over the North Pole, and aviatrix Amelia Earhart.