John J. Pesch
John Joseph Pesch was a senior officer in the United States Air Force who served as director of the Air National Guard from 20 April 1974 to 31 January 1977. He served in World War II, and was a young pilot on 23 March 1944, when German fighters shot out two engines on the left side of his B-17 during a bombing raid. Eight members of the crew bailed out, leaving Pesch and his co-pilot, J. C. Amley, to successfully land the aircraft.
Major General John J. Pesch Flight Safety Trophy
Pesch is remembered each time his "Flight Safety Trophy" is awarded to an organization.Major awards and decorations
- Air Force Distinguished Service Medal
- Legion of Merit
- Distinguished Flying Cross with one oak leaf cluster
- Meritorious Service Medal
- Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters.
- Air Force Commendation Medal
- Presidential Unit Citation
- World War II Victory Medal (United States)
- Army of Occupation Medal
- National Defense Service Medal