About the Distinguished Flying Cross Society
Every Distinguished Flying Cross has a story. We make sure it is never forgotten.
The Distinguished Flying Cross Society honors the men and women of every branch of service who have earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. Their courage, skill, judgment and dedication form a proud legacy of American military aviation.
But every Distinguished Flying Cross is more than a medal. Behind each one is a story of a mission, a moment of decision, and the people whose courage made a difference. We exist to make sure those stories, and the lessons they carry, are preserved for future generations.
[Learn about the medal →]
Our Mission
To steward the legacy of Distinguished Flying Cross recipients by preserving their stories and the enduring lessons of courage they carry, advancing aviation education, and supporting those who serve and sacrifice.
Our Vision
A future in which the legacy of Distinguished Flying Cross recipients endures as a source of inspiration, education and service for generations to come.
At a Glance
Founded: 1994
Status: 501(c)(3) nonprofit
Chapters: 23 across the United States
Headquarters: San Diego, California
What We Do
Preserve their stories
We record and share the experiences of DFC recipients through oral histories, interviews and documentaries, so their accounts are kept in their own words. We also maintain a permanent Honor Roll of our members. [Explore the stories →]
Educate the next generation
We bring the history and values of the DFC to schools, ROTC and JROTC units, Civil Air Patrol squadrons and scouting organizations. [Education programs →]
Support DFC families
Since 1998, our scholarship program has provided financial awards to the children and descendants of DFCS members. [Scholarships →]
Bring members together
Our national reunions, held every two years, gather recipients, families and friends for fellowship and remembrance. Our next reunion is in Pensacola, Florida, November [2–4 / 2–5], 2027. Our DFCS News Magazine is published twice a year. [Reunions →]
Who Can Join
Membership is open to recipients of the Distinguished Flying Cross. Spouses, relatives and descendants of recipients are welcome as associate members, and they help carry these stories forward. Because the U.S. government has never kept a complete list of DFC recipients, every member who joins helps us build a fuller record of this history.
[Become a Member] [Share a Recipient’s Story] [Support Our Mission]
A Message from Our President
Thank you for visiting the Distinguished Flying Cross Society. Whether you are a recipient, a family member, or someone who simply wants to learn more, we are glad you are here. We invite you to explore these stories and join us in preserving them.
John Whiddon
President, Distinguished Flying Cross Society
