COLONEL FREDERIC M. DONOHUE (then Major) was awarded the Air Force Cross for extraordinary heroism in military operations against an armed enemy of the United States as an Aircraft Commander during the Prisoner of War search and rescue operation on 21 November 1970. On that date, Major Donohue courageously flew the first aircraft directly over the compound at an altitude of forty feet at less than twenty knots airspeed. He fired upon the greatest threats to the ground rescue party which was following less than twenty seconds behind his aircraft. So precise was fire from his aircraft that guard towers were neutralized within ten feet of suspected prisoner cantonment buildings. Major Donohue, without regard for his personal safety, immeasurably contributed to the complete confusion and disorganization of enemy forces. He successfully completed a daring return penetration through numerous surface-to-air missiles, ground fire, and the threat of enemy aircraft. Through his extraordinary heroism, superb airmanship and aggressiveness in the face of the enemy, Major Donohue reflected the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Col. Donohue resides in Florida and is a life member.