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Wall of Honor Level:
Air and Space Sponsor

Honored by:
Mr. David C. Parkieyzst II

Captain Parkhurst began his flying career in November of 1956, as a Lieutenant in the Navy. Completing primary training, he qualified as a naval aviator on October 4, 1957. Over the next 15 years Capt. Parkhurst would qualify in and fly 20 different aircraft models including the A7E Corsair II, his favorite. In those aircraft, Capt. Parkhurst completed 1,946 flights, logging 3,087.4 accident free flight hours.
Capt. Parkhurst's most cherished memories from his flying career came from the time he served with and commanded Attack Squadron 192, the World Famous Golden Dragons. During Capt. Parkhurst's tenure, he and his pilots were renowned for their flying accomplishments, including but not limited to, winning bombing derbies, Top Gun trophies and Flôet Battle Excellence and Safety awards.
Included in Capt. Parkhurst's flight time were approximately 90 combat missions flown against targets in Laos, North Vietnam and South Vietnam, while flying off the USS KITTY HAWK, from December 1970 through April 1971. Under Capt Parkhurst's command, the Dragons had the distinction of completing that line period without losing a single aircraft or pilot, and without a single mishap. A notable accomplishment for a squadron flying daily combat missions. The pilots serving under Capt. Parkhurst went on to command squadrons of their own, become shuttle astronauts, even to command the Navy's Blue Angels. They were the very best!
Capt. Parkhurst's personal awards included 10 Air Medals, the Navy Commendation Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and a Bronze Star, all for his heroism in combat. Despite the hours Capt. Parkhurst devoted to his career and his love of flight, his personal achievements also included being a devoted husband and the loving father of two children who honor his memory with this dedication.