RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
         AIR FORCE BOARD FOR CORRECTION OF MILITARY RECORDS

IN THE MATTER OF:	DOCKET NUMBER:  BC-2005-00224
		INDEX CODE:  107.00

		COUNSEL:  NONE

		HEARING DESIRED:  NO

MANDATORY CASE COMPLETION DATE:  22 Jul 06

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APPLICANT REQUESTS THAT:

His records be corrected to reflect award of the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC).

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APPLICANT CONTENDS THAT:

He flew numerous missions which encountered enemy ground fire and excessively steep landing approaches.  He should have received recognition for the missions by being awarded the DFC.

During his assignments in Vietnam, all the other pilots received the DFC.

In support of his appeal, the applicant provided an expanded statement and documentation reflecting his combat certificate.

Applicant’s complete submission, with attachments, is at Exhibit A.

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STATEMENT OF FACTS:

Applicant was honorably relieved from active duty and retired, effective 1 Jan 74, in the grade of major.  He was credited with 20 years, 3 months, and 17 days of active service.  His separation document indicates that during his service, he was awarded the Air Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal (AFCM), Meritorious Service Medal (MSM), Bronze Star Medal (BSM), Air Force Good Conduct Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters (4OLC), Air Force Longevity Service Award with four Oak Leaf Clusters (4OLC), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (AFEM) with one Bronze Service Star (1BSS), Vietnam Service Medal (VSM) (1BBS), Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal (RVCM), Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (AFOUA) (2OLC), National Defense Service Medal (NDSM) (1BBS), and the Combat Readiness Medal (CRM).

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AIR FORCE EVALUATION:

AFPC/DPPPR recommended denial indicating that after a review of the applicant’s records and his supporting documentation, they were unable to determine his entitlement to the DFC.  However, they noted he received the Bronze Star Medal (BSM) for the period in time for which he is seeking the DFC.

A complete copy of the AFPC/DPPPR evaluation is at Exhibit C.

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APPLICANT'S REVIEW OF AIR FORCE EVALUATION:

Applicant reviewed the advisory opinion and furnished a response and indicating that the AFPC/DPPPR’s recommendation to deny his request is not consistent with the facts or documentation he presented.

Applicant’s complete response, with attachments, is at Exhibit E.

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THE BOARD CONCLUDES THAT:

1.  The applicant has exhausted all remedies provided by existing law or regulations.

2.  The application was not timely filed; however, it is in the interest of justice to excuse the failure to timely file.

3.  Insufficient relevant evidence has been presented to demonstrate the existence of error or injustice.  We took notice of the applicant's complete submission in judging the merits of the case; however, we agree with the opinion and recommendation of the Air Force office of primary responsibility (OPR) and adopt their rationale as the basis for our decision that the applicant has failed to sustain his burden he has suffered either an error or an injustice.  We believe it should be pointed out that the applicant’s decorated service and sacrifice for his country has not gone unnoticed.  Notwithstanding this, no evidence has been presented which has shown to our satisfaction the applicant was recommended for or met the established criteria for award of the DFC.  In view of the above, and in the absence of sufficient evidence to the contrary, we find no compelling basis to recommend granting the relief sought in this application.

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THE BOARD DETERMINES THAT:

The applicant be notified that the evidence presented did not demonstrate the existence of material error or injustice; that the application was denied without a personal appearance; and that the application will only be reconsidered upon the submission of newly discovered relevant evidence not considered with this application.

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The following members of the Board considered AFBCMR Docket Number BC-2005-00224 in Executive Session on 19 May 05, under the provisions of AFI 36-2603:

	Panel Chair
	Member
	Member

The following documentary evidence was considered:

    Exhibit A.  DD Form 149, dated 10 Jan 05, w/atchs.
    Exhibit B.  Applicant's Master Personnel Records.
    Exhibit C.  Letter, AFPC/DPPPR, dated 24 Mar 05.
    Exhibit D.  Letter, SAF/MRBR, dated 25 Mar 05.
    Exhibit E.  Letter, applicant, dated 5 May 05, w/atchs.

                                   
                                   Panel Chair