John J. Pesch

John Joseph Pesch (July 20, 1921 – January 10, 2010) was the national director of the Air National Guard from April 20, 1974 to January 31, 1977. The General served in the Second World War, and was a young pilot (Captain) on March 23, 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 alone with the aircraft.

Major General John J. Pesch Flight Safety Trophy
The General is remembered each time his "Flight Safety Trophy" is awarded to an organization.
 * 157th Air Refueling Wing
 * 135th Airlift Group
 * 119th Wing (Awarded Trophy in 2003, 2002, and 2000)

Major awards and decorations

 * Legion of Merit ribbon.svg   Legion of Merit
 * Distinguished Flying Cross ribbon.svg   Distinguished Flying Cross (United States) with one Oak Leaf Cluster
 * Meritorious Service ribbon.svg   Meritorious Service Medal
 * Air Medal ribbon.svg   Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters.
 * Air Force Commendation ribbon.svg   Air Force Commendation Medal
 * Presidential Unit Citation ribbon.svg   Presidential Unit Citation (United States)
 * World War II Victory Medal ribbon.svg   World War II Victory Medal (United States)
 * Army of Occupation ribbon.svg   Army of Occupation Medal
 * National Defense Service Medal ribbon.svg   National Defense Service Medal