15 July 1967 – T.H. Herndon was flying F-100D #563275. Enroute to a target of 150 Vietcong in a treeline, he was hit by 57mm AAA during a climb. He ejected and was recovered by USAF Helo. Herndon was serving with the 531st TFS out of Bien Hoa AB.
From TAC ATTACK SEPTEMBER 1970, VOL 10, No. 9
“Major James H. Frogge of the 4429 Combat Crew Training Squadron, Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico, has been selected as a Tactical Air Command Pilot of Distinction.
Major Frogge was flying a night instrument mission in a T·33. Shortly after takeoff, he experienced a muffled explosion, accompanied by rapidly decreasing oil pressure and increased engine vibration. He immediately declared an emergency and turned back toward the field to set up a precautionary landing pattern. As he retarded the throttle to 82 percent, vibration increased and the fire light began ‘Iicker on and off. Unable to climb, Major Frogge set himself up at low key altitude for the precautionary landing pattern.
As low key was reached, the oil pressure dropped to zero and vibrations became severe. On base turn, the fire light came on steady and remained on. Major Frogge was able to successfully accomplish a landing with no damage to the aircraft.
Investigation revealed a broken blade from the front side of the compressor rotor had caused considerable damage in the compressor guide vane assembly area.
Major Frogge’s outstanding airmanship in a critical inflight emergency readily qualifies him as a Tactical Air Command Pilot of Distinction.”