The Terminal Building at Palm Beach International Airport is named for a distinguished war hero who grew up in West Palm Beach, Commander (later Captain) David McCampbell. Cdr. McCampbell achieved the highest number of aerial victories of any flier in the Navy during World War II. At the Battle of the Philippine Seas he was conspicuously successful, as noted in the plaque’s Presidential Citation.

Dale and Phil Dunmire, past national president of the Navy League, were instrumental in achieving the approval of the Palm Beach airport commission for the design and installation of two identical plaques installed in two prominent locations at the airport. The plaques memorialize the contribution of a great American and increase the recognition of the Navy in the south Florida community.

Seeing these words displayed at Palm Beach International Airport is a powerful reminder of Captain David McCampbell’s service and sacrifice.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
MEDAL OF HONOR
to COMMANDER
DAVID S. McCAMPBELL, UNITED STATES NAVY

For service as set forth in the following citation:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Commander, Air Group FIFTEEN, attached to the USS Essex (CV-9). His great personal valor and indomitable spirit of aggression under extremely perilous combat conditions reflect the highest credit upon Commander McCampbell and the United States Naval Service.

Memorials like this serve an important purpose: they keep extraordinary service from fading quietly into the past.

Diplomats & Admirals • Aubrey Publishing Co. LLC. • December 1, 2022 🛒🔗 Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kindle