Rudolf Anderson
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Rudolf Anderson Jr. was an American Air Force major and pilot. He was the first recipient of the Air Force Cross, the U.S. military's and Air Force's second-highest award and decoration for valor. The only U.S. fatality by enemy fire during the Cuban Missile Crisis, Anderson died when his U-2 reconnaissance aircraft was shot down over Cuba. He had previously served in Korea during the Korean War.
Major Rudolf Anderson, USAF
S-75 Dvina with V-750V 1D missile (NATO SA-2 Guideline) on a launcher. An installation similar to this one shot down Major Anderson's U-2 over Cuba.
The engine of the U-2F in the Museum of the Revolution in Havana.
One of the engine air intakes of the U-2F in the Museo de la Lucha contra los Bandidos in Trinidad.
Air Force Cross (United States)
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The Air Force Cross (AFC) is the United States Air Force and United States Space Force's second highest military decoration for airmen and guardians who distinguish themselves with extraordinary heroism in combat with an armed enemy force. The medal is awarded to any person, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force or Space Force, who distinguish themselves by extraordinary heroism, not justifying the award of a Medal of Honor.
SSgt Zachary Rhyner receiving the Air Force Cross from Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley.