Retired Brig. Gen. Frank Cardile (left) congratulates retired New York Air National Guard Chief Master Sgt. Dennis M. Richardson after presenting Richardson with the Air Force Cross on April 5 at Francis S. Gabreski Airport, Westhampton Beach, N.Y. Richardson was awarded the medal, the Air Force's second highest award for valor, because of his actions during a March 1968 mission to rescue downed Airmen in Vietnam. Col. Michael F. Canders, 106th Rescue Wing Commander, is at right.
Cardile, who flew on the rescue mission that Richarson was honored for, praised his heroism and steadfastness under fire.
During the mission Richardson stood exposed in the door of an HH-53 "Jolly Green Giant" helicopter to fight off North Vietnamese troops who were attempting to board the helicopter.
DMNA Press Releases
Loading Press Releases...NY National Guard In the News
Times Union -- Tue, 30 Dec 2025 Duty Calls: Memorial Ruck March commemorates fallen airmen More than 250 airmen walk from Stewart Air National Guard Base to Purple Heart Museum in New Windsor More than 250 airmen of the New York Air National Guards 105th Airlift Wing, with heavy... (more)
Boonville Herald -- Mon, 29 Dec 2025 Boonville resident becomes top enlisted leader for Buffalo-based brigade BOONVILLE/BUFFALO New York Army National Guard Command Sgt. Major Morgan Cady, a Boonville resident and Iraq war veteran, became the senior enlisted leader of the Guards 153rd Troop Command... (more)
Kingston Daily Freeman -- Sat, 27 Dec 2025 Military news: Area residents in N.Y. Army National Guard, Air National Guard promoted The following area residents serving in the New York Army National Guard were promoted: * Michael Murashowe of Port Ewen, assigned to Bravo Company, National Guard Recruiting & Retention... (more)