United States Air Force Academy
Colorado Springs, CO
May 11, 2006
Medal of Honor recipients inspire Air Force Academy
A month-long exhibit at the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) wrapped up on June 14. During the opening of the exhibit, Master
of Ceremonies Gen. (Ret.) James G. Sanders introduced three Medal of Honor recipients in attendance, stating, "... to have
Tommy Norris,
Joe
Jackson and
Bernie Fisher
in our presence today, it's hard to find words befitting such bravery and strength of character."
"A wonderful exhibit! I am both humbled by their sacrifices and achievements - and proud to be an American."
– Judi F., Texas
Norris explained the history of the Medal of Honor and paid tribute Capt.
Lance P. Sijan, the only USAFA graduate to receive the Medal of Honor. Shot down in Vietnam in 1967, Sijan evaded capture for
more than 45 days before being captured and taken as a prisoner of war. Though severely injured, he managed to escape, but was recaptured.
He died on January 22, 1968. A special drawing of Sijan was included in the exhibit, along with several personal effects, including
his academy yearbook, photos of Sijan as a cadet and his tombstone from Vietnam.
John McCain pays tribute to Capt. Sijan in "
Ennobled
by Example."