A highly decorated war hero and pilot, known for his bravery and exceptional flying skills, earning the highest military honor for his actions during the Vietnam War.
Known for his unwavering bravery and selfless acts of valor, George Everette "Bud" Day is the most decorated war hero in American history. As a United States Air Force officer, aviator, and veteran of three wars, Day earned over 70 awards, decorations, and medals, including the Medal of Honor and Air Force Cross, making him the only person to receive both honors.
Born on February 24, 1925, in Sioux City, Iowa, Day grew up with a strong sense of patriotism and duty. In 1942, he dropped out of Central High School to enlist in the United States Marine Corps, serving 30 months in the North Pacific during World War II. After the war, Day attended Morningside College on the G.I. Bill, earning a Bachelor of Science degree, and later, a Juris Doctor from the University of South Dakota School of Law.
Day's military career spanned over three decades, with service in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. In 1967, while flying an F-100 Super Sabre on a mission over North Vietnam, Day's plane was shot down, and he was captured by enemy forces. Despite being severely injured, Day escaped from his captors and evaded capture for over two weeks, earning him the Medal of Honor for his actions.
On March 4, 1976, Day was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in Vietnam, becoming the only person to receive both the Medal of Honor and Air Force Cross. His Medal of Honor citation reads: "His bravery and heroism were in the highest tradition of the United States military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force."
In addition to his Medal of Honor and Air Force Cross, Day received numerous other awards and honors, including the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, Legion of Merit, and Purple Heart. He was posthumously advanced to the rank of brigadier general in 2018, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of military personnel and civilians alike.
Day's personal life was marked by milestones and key events that shaped his character and worldview. He married his wife, Doris, in 1949, and they had two children together. Day also pursued higher education, earning advanced degrees from Saint Louis University, Morningside College, and Troy State University.
Bud Day's legacy extends far beyond his military service. He is an inspiration to anyone who has ever served in the military, and his bravery and selflessness serve as a beacon of hope and courage for generations to come. Day's life and service are a testament to the importance of duty, honor, and country, and his impact on modern society will be felt for years to come.
"The only way to get anything done is to do it yourself, and the only way to get anything done right is to do it yourself and take responsibility for it." - Bud Day
Bud Day was committed to giving back to his community and supporting worthy causes. He was involved with various charitable organizations, including the Medal of Honor Society and the Air Force Association, and supported initiatives that benefited veterans and their families.
Bud Day's life and service are a testament to the power of courage, perseverance, and determination. His story serves as an inspiration to anyone who has ever faced adversity, and his legacy continues to motivate and inspire people around the world.
90 Years Old
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A decorated four-star general who played a crucial role in the Vietnam War, leading US military forces to victory in several key battles and later becoming the Army's Chief of Staff.
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A Medal of Honor recipient and former POW, he was a naval aviator who withstood torture and led fellow prisoners in resistance during the Vietnam War. He later became a vice presidential candidate.
