Foil: 6 Panel: Distinguished Flying Cross Society Column: 2 Line: 4

Wall of Honor Level:
Air and Space Friend

Honored by:

In October, 1966, Jim Lomonaco joined the U.S. Army, and qualified for the Warrant Officer Rotary Wing Training School. Upon successful completion of his training in Nov, 1967, he was assigned to the 189th Assault Helicopter Co. in Pleiku, RVN, where he served for one year and answered to Ghostrider 25. There he experienced loyalty, camaraderie, and heroism that were indelibly etched upon him, and taken by him as standards to be met the rest of his life. During his tour, of which he hopes it can be said that he honored his comrades, country, and family, he received, among other awards, 2 Distinguished Flying Crosses and the Air Medal for Valor. While grateful for this recognition, he has always felt that most of the soldiers with which he served were equally as deserving of the same recognition, though often, they were not so recognized.

Upon return from combat, Chief Lomonaco was assigned as a Primary Phase Flight Instructor at Ft. Wolters, TX. for the remainder of his active duty.

In his civilian endeavors, he became a Combat Skills Flight Instructor in various fixed and rotary wing aircraft for the US Army Reserves at NAS Glenview from 1980-1996, known as Hawk 4, completing over 25 years of service with the Army Reserves.

Jim capped his flying career as a commercial helicopter tour pilot, flying over the breathtaking waterfalls and lava flows of the Big Island of Hawaii. His final call sign was Sunshine 23!

He is grateful for the loving patience of his wife, Gail and his family, and to God for many years of safe soaring.