In 1972, he was engaged in the rescue of U.S. Marine Corps A-6 Intruder pilot Major Clyde D. Smith and bombardier/navigator, 1st Lt.
Scott D. Ketchie, who were shot down over North Vietnam.
1st Lt.
Ketchie was not rescued and was subsequently declared Missing in action.
For his effort in leading the rescue mission, Harding was awarded the Air Force Cross.
The rescue effort is depicted in History Channel.
In 1972, he was engaged in the rescue of U.S. Marine Corps A-6 Intruder pilot Major Clyde D. Smith and bombardier/navigator, 1st Lt. Scott D. Ketchie, who were shot down over North Vietnam. 1st Lt. Ketchie was not rescued and was subsequently declared Missing in action. For his effort in leading the rescue mission, Harding was awarded the Air Force Cross. The rescue effort is depicted in History Channel.
James C. Harding