Name/Title
Air Medal of Gerald HennesyDescription
Compass rose shaped bronze medal with a fleur-de-lis at the top. Medal depicts a diving eagle volant holding a lightening bolt in each set of talons. Ribbon has two golden yellow vertical stripes on a royal blue background. Medal and ribbon (2023.33.2) are housed in the original air medal case of blue leather with gold filigree.Use
The Air Medal was awarded for single acts of heroism or meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight starting in 1942.Context
As a F4U Corsair fighter-bomber pilot in the Pacific, Gerald Hennesy flew almost 100 missions off the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown (CV-10). He received the Air Medal for downing an enemy aircraft during a rescue mission for one of his fellow pilots.Collection
Gerald Hennesy CollectionAcquisition
Accession
2023.33Source or Donor
Theresa HennesyAcquisition Method
DonationMade/Created
Artist Information
Artist
Walker Kirtland HancockRole
DesignerDate made
circa 1940Update Date
July 23, 2025
