Some well known names have been recognised here.

From the Defence Media Centre......



Awarding of US Air Medals to Australian Veterans of Korean and Vietnam wars

The Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, Warren Snowdon, congratulated the 11 veterans of the Korean War who were awarded the United States Air Medal for service in Korea.

The awards were presented by the United States Ambassador, His Excellency Jeffrey L Bleich, in Canberra today.

Mr Snowdon said he was pleased the airmen receive this medal for their outstanding efforts.

“The United States Air Medal for service in Korea reccognises the valiant efforts and dedication that these men portrayed in their support of the United States Air Force during the Korean War,”
Mr Snowdon said.

“It is wonderful to see our servicemen being recognised for their efforts in supporting the United States Air Force in such conflicts.”

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the United States Government for their work to recognise the contribution made by the Australians that assisted them during the Korean War.”

The medals have been awarded to 11 veterans, from the Royal Australian Air Force’s Number 77 Squadron, who flew in support of the 5th United States Air Force during the Korean War. [see full list of medal recipients attached].

Authorised by President Roosevelt in 1942, the US Air Medal is awarded to any person who, while serving in any capacity in or with the armed forces of the United States, shall have distinguished himself by meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.

Media Contacts:
Defence Media Operations: 02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664
Minister Snowdon: Alice Plate 0400 045 999


The recipients are (rank worn in Korea):

Name Hometown

Sergeant Ronald Bastin, Forster, NSW
Sergeant Peter Coy, Sunshine Coast, QLD
Flying Officer Ronald Guthrie, Newcastle, NSW
Sergeant William Monaghan, Canberra, ACT
Flight Lieutenant Hartley Shearn, Adelaide, SA
Sergeant Spencer Seaver, Sydney, NSW
Sergeant Billie Collings, Canberra, ACT
Sergeant Robert Macintosh, Adelaide, SA
Pilot Officer John Newham, Sydney, NSW
Sergeant John Seaton, Sydney, NSW
Squadron Leader Ross Glassop, Born Sydney, NSW
(posthumous)