Editor’s Note: This Veterans Day Voice of OC is publishing a series of plaques honoring some of Orange County’s most decorated veterans. Jacksel Broughton was born in Utica, NY on January 4, 1925 and died in Lake Forest, CA on October 24, 2014. He also received two Silver Stars and four Distinguished Flying Crosses. Wrote three books about the Vietnam War.
Col Jacksel M. Broughton, U.S.A.F.
Citation: Air Force Cross
War: Vietnam War
Colonel Jacksel M. Broughton distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force in Southeast Asia on 5 February 1967. On that date, Colonel Broughton was Mission Commander of a flight of a two wing F-105 Thunderchief Strike Force which attacked a heavily defended target in North Vietnam. Despite serious aircraft malfunctions, marginal weather, and grave damage to his aircraft from an exploding surface-to-air missile, he placed his armament directly on target, scattering fire and debris which illuminated the target for easy acquisition by the following strike force. Disregarding the crippled condition of his aircraft, which minimized his chances for recovery to friendly territory, Colonel Broughten then willfully acted as a decoy to divert hostile aircraft approaching the strikeforce. Through his extraordinary heroism, superb airmanship, and aggressiveness in the face of the enemy, Colonel Broughton reflected the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Orange County Walk of Honor by AMVETS
More about Col Jacksel M. Broughton:
Jack Broughton dies at 89; outspoken, revered Vietnam fighter pilot LA Times
Jack Broughton, 89, Dies; Pilot in Vietnam Turned Critic of Leaders The New York Times
Veterans Tributes, Honoring Those Who Served Veterans Tributes