Distinguished Alumni

Air Force Cross

The Air Force Cross is the second-highest military decoration that can be awarded to a member of the U.S. Air Force or U.S. Space Force, ranking just below the Medal of Honor. 

It is awarded for extraordinary heroism to any person serving with the U.S. Air Force or U.S. Space Force while engaged in action 

against an enemy of the United States, involved in military operations against an opposing foreign force, or serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in armed conflict against an opposing force in which the United States is not a belligerent party. 

Those listed below are AFROTC Det 485 alumni who have been awarded the Air Force Cross.

John A. Dramesi, Colonel, USAF - Class of 1955 (two-time recipient)

Purple Heart

The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who have been wounded, killed, or who have died of wounds received in the line of duty.

It recognizes the courage and sacrifice of those who have endured injury or paid the ultimate price while serving their country in combat or hostile situations.

Those listed below are AFROTC Det 485 alumni who have been awarded the Purple Heart.

Richard W. Harold, Captain, USAF - Class of 1967

Joseph E. Milligan, Colonel, USAF - Class of 1963 (two-time recipient)

Walter C. Hersman, Brigadier General, USAF - Class of 1961

David H. Pinsky, Colonel, USAF - Class of 1961 (two-time recipient)

John A. Dramesi, Colonel, USAF - Class of 1955 (five-time recipient)

General Officer

Below are esteemed Det 485 alumni who have risen to the rank of General Officer in the U.S. Air Force or U.S. Space Force—a rare and distinguished accomplishment representing decades of exceptional leadership and service.

Lieutenant General 

Charles E. Croom, Lieutenant General, USAF - Class of 1973

John E. Jaquish, Lieutenant General, USAF - Class of 1959

Robert E. Kelly, Lieutenant General, USAF - Class of 1956

Major General 

Anthony W. Genatempo, Major General, USAF - Class of 1991

Robert G. Kenny, Major General, USAF - Class of 1978

Jonathan S. Gration, Major General, USAF - Class of 1974

Martin M. Mazick, Major General, USAF - Class of 1972

Robert J. Courter, Major General, USAF - Class of 1968

Jeffery G. Cliver, Major General, USAF - Class of 1965

John H. Vorhees, Major General, USAF - Class of 1954

Brigadier General

Walter C. Hersman, Brigadier General, USAF - Class of 1961

Monte E. Montgomery, Brigadier General, USAF - Class of 1956