Major George E. Day shot down over North Vietnam - Aug 26, 1967 - HISTORY.com

Thanks SP5 Mark Kuzinski for reminding us that Major George E. Day was captured and severely tortured after ejecting when his North American F-100F was shot down over North Vietnam on August 26, 1967.
Image: 1967 MOH recipient George 'Bud' Day-with President Richard Nixon at the award.
Medal of Honor Citation
DAY, GEORGE E. U.S. Air Force Major
Company: Misty Super FAC's 100 SquadronDivision:
Born: 24 February 1925, Sioux City, Iowa Died 07/27/2013
Entered Service At: Sioux City, Iowa
Date of Issue: 03/06/1976
Place / Date: North Vietnam, 26 August 1967

Citation
On 26 August 1967, Col. Day was forced to eject from his aircraft over North Vietnam when it was hit by ground fire. His right arm was broken in 3 places, and his left knee was badly sprained. He was immediately captured by hostile forces and taken to a prison camp where he was interrogated and severely tortured. After causing the guards to relax their vigilance, Col. Day escaped into the jungle and began the trek toward South Vietnam. Despite injuries inflicted by fragments of a bomb or rocket, he continued southward surviving only on a few berries and uncooked frogs. He successfully evaded enemy patrols and reached the Ben Hai River, where he encountered U.S. artillery barrages. With the aid of a bamboo log float, Col. Day swam across the river and entered the demilitarized zone. Due to delirium, he lost his sense of direction and wandered aimlessly for several days. After several unsuccessful attempts to signal U.S. aircraft, he was ambushed and recaptured by the Viet Cong, sustaining gunshot wounds to his left hand and thigh. He was returned to the prison from which he had escaped and later was moved to Hanoi after giving his captors false information to questions put before him. Physically, Col. Day was totally debilitated and unable to perform even the simplest task for himself. Despite his many injuries, he continued to offer maximum resistance. His personal bravery in the face of deadly enemy pressure was significant in saving the lives of fellow aviators who were still flying against the enemy. Col. Day's conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Air Force and reflect great credit upon himself and the U.S. Armed Forces."
http://www.cmohs.org/recipient-detail/3257/day-george-e.php

FYI COL Mikel J. Burroughs LTC Stephen C. Capt Seid Waddell Capt Tom Brown SFC William Farrell SSgt Robert Marx Maj Marty Hogan PO1 William "Chip" Nagel SPC Margaret Higgins SSG William Wall MSgt Jason McClish AN Christopher Crayne LTC Bill Koski Sgt Trevor Barrett SPC Tom DeSmet SGT Charles H. Hawes LTC Wayne Brandon SGT (Join to see) SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth

Col Day is a local hero and his cousin was my 4th grade teacher. Great man and true hero.

SP5 Mark Kuzinski good day, thank you for the historical share of Major George E. Day. Good read/share!