Atlanta VAHCS Air Force Veterans Reflect on the Legacy of the Air Force Cross

As the nation commemorates the anniversary of the establishment of the Air Force Cross on July 6, Veterans receiving care at the Atlanta VA Health Care System are reflecting on the inspiring acts of heroism the decoration stands for. 

Created by Congress in 1960, the Air Force Cross stands as a shining testament to courage and dedication, second only to the Medal of Honor among U.S. Air Force awards. It is awarded to airmen and guardians who distinguish themselves through extraordinary heroism in combat while facing an armed enemy.  

For Air Force Veteran James Jones, the anniversary serves as a reminder that true heroes rarely seek recognition. "When I think about the Air Force Cross, I think about the men and women who placed the lives of others ahead of their own," Jones said Those recipients didn't act because they wanted medals. They acted because their fellow service members needed them. Their courage and selflessness continue to inspire every generation of our military." 

Jones said honoring recipients of the Air Force Cross also honors the countless service members whose dedication and sacrifice often go unnoticed. 

Retired Air Force major Linda Lewis said the award represents the unwavering commitment to duty that every member of our armed forces strives to uphold. "The Air Force, like every branch of the military, teaches you that service is about integrity, excellence and putting the mission first," Lewis said. "The Air Force Cross symbolizes those values at their highest level. Remembering these heroes reminds us that freedom has always depended on ordinary people willing to do extraordinary things." 

Lewis added that commemorating the anniversary is also an opportunity to educate younger generations about the sacrifices made by America's military members. 

"The stories behind the Air Force Cross are stories of courage, sacrifice and devotion to country," she said. "They deserve to be remembered, not only by those who served, but by all Americans." 

The Atlanta VA Health Care System is honored to care for thousands of Air Force Veterans across Georgia whose service has strengthened the nation's security. While only a select few have received the Air Force Cross, the spirit of dedication, professionalism and sacrifice reflected in the award lives on through Veterans who served with honor.