DFCS News and Events
MARINE SUPPORT FACILITY, New Orleans --
Nearly six decades after his aircraft went down over the South China Sea, Maj. Everett McPherson’s courage in the skies has finally been recognized. In a ceremony filled with solemn reflection and pride, the Marine Corps posthumously awarded McPherson the Distinguished Flying Cross, one of the nation’s highest decorations for heroism in aerial flight.
The ceremony brought together Marines, veterans and McPherson’s family, including his brothers Raymond and Allan, and his sisters Mary Lou, Fay and Kay, to honor a Marine who gave everything in service to his country and his comrades.
“Combat pilots are by definition courageous,” said Lt. Gen. Leonard F. Anderson IV, commander of Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Forces South. “But only the most courageous of those earn this medal. Maj. McPherson’s actions reflect that rare combination of heroism and extraordinary achievement that defines the Distinguished Flying Cross.”
McPherson grew up in North Carolina, where his quiet confidence and athletic talent set him apart from an early age. A gifted sportsman and natural leader, he balanced his studies with a desire to serve, joining the Marine Corps Reserve while pursuing college. When the call came for Vietnam, he didn’t hesitate. He traded the classroom for the cockpit.
McPherson was assigned to Marine Composite Reconnaissance Squadron One (VMCJ-1), Marine Aircraft Group 11, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. The unit flew the EF-10B Skyknight, an electronic warfare jet designed to jam enemy radar and disrupt communications, a vital but often unseen mission that protected strike aircraft during attacks on enemy positions.
“He flew willingly into the most heavily defended skies in the world to protect others. That is the essence of heroism”.
Lt. Gen. Leonard F. Anderson IV, commander of Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Forces South
Coast Guard Training Center Cape May dedicates aquatic training facility in honor of fallen rescue swimmer
U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May
CAPE MAY, N.J. — U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May renamed its aquatic training facility the AST2 Tyler J. Jaggers Aquatic Training Facility during a dedication ceremony Sept. 24th, honoring a Coast Guard rescue swimmer who gave his life in service to others.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler Jaggers, an aviation survival technician assigned to Coast Guard Air Station Astoria, Oregon, passed away March 5, 2026, from injuries suffered while responding to a distressed mariner aboard the commercial motor vessel Momi Arrow on Feb. 27, 2026.
“Tyler Jaggers embodied what we endeavor to instill in every recruit who passes through Training Center Cape May; courage, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to others,” said Capt. Amanda Lee, Commanding Officer of Training Center Cape May. “Every Coast Guard member begins their journey here, and every recruit trains in this pool. From this day forward, they will learn Tyler’s name, understand his sacrifice, and be reminded that the skills they develop here may one day be called upon to save a life.”
The dedication ceremony brought together members of Jaggers’ family, Coast Guard leaders, rescue swimmers, Training Center Cape May personnel and recruits to honor and unveil the facility’s new name.
The aquatic training facility is an integral part of the Coast Guard’s enlisted basic training program. Every recruit receives water survival instruction designed to build the skills and confidence necessary to operate in the maritime environment.
Naming the facility for Jaggers creates a direct connection between the beginning of every member’s career and the service’s highest callings to save lives.
Training Center Cape May is the Coast Guard’s sole enlisted basic training facility and is responsible for transforming civilians into Coast Guardsmen prepared to serve throughout the service’s operational missions.
Tech. Sgt. Adam Brister Awarded Distinguished Flying Cross for Heroic Alaska Rescue
Former Alaska Air National Guard pararescueman Tech. Sgt. Adam Brister was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary valor during a June 2018 rescue in Alaska’s Neacola Mountains.
After severe weather prevented a conventional hoist, Brister climbed toward an unconscious climber stranded on a narrow ledge following a 100-foot fall. During a brief opening in the clouds, an HH-60G crew conducted a dangerous nighttime hoist with its rotor blades approximately three feet from the cliff. Brister secured the climber and, when a rope became entangled during the extraction, cut the line while holding the patient—protecting both the survivor and the aircraft. He then provided lifesaving medical care during the flight.
Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry presented the medal to Brister on March 26, 2026, at the Louisiana Capitol. His courage, skill and determination exemplify the extraordinary service recognized by the Distinguished Flying Cross.
DFC Recipient, the late Senator Ted Stevens (AK), to be honored with the commissioning of the USS Ted Stevens
NORFOLK (May 15, 2026) The newest Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, the future USS Ted Stevens (DDG 128) arrives in its future homeport of Naval Station Norfolk, May 15, 2026. The U.S. Navy will commission the future USS Ted Stevens (DDG 128) on a date to be announced at a later time in Whittier, Alaska.
Senator Stevens received a Distinguished Flying Cross while serving with the Flying Tigers in World War II. Senator Stevens was enrolled posthumously as a member of the DFC Society.
