Unbalanced Scale Of Recognition

There were a number of countries in Europe during WWII that did not have a hostile armed force against the United States.

I would like to identify two this subject involves.

The Soviet Union

Switzerland

The latter had over 200 American USAAF, and Navy airmen
enter their country. An unknown number were sent to Siberia.

If not all, the majority were authorized the POW medal in 1992 by Secretary of the AF Rice, (blanket approval), Secretary of the Navy Garrett III, and Acting Secretary of the Navy O'Keefe.

Switzerland had approximately 1500 American airmen held in hotels, and ski resorts. There were over 200 that attempted to escape buy were apprehended during the act.

For punishment the Swiss sent them to Wauwilermoos Prison, which was in violation of Article 56 of the Geneva Convention, dated 1929.

Conditions were equal or exceeded the harshness experienced in camps held by the enemy.

To date, there have been only 2 internees awarded the POW medal held at the facility. The first was approved in 1996 by AF Chief of Staff General Fogleman. Lt. General Record at Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona, presented it to the veteran.

The second individual to receive the medal resides in Utah. After his daughter contacted Congressman Matheson,the AF approved the medal in 2006.

Currently, the Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records is denying the medal to the grandson of a former pilot (deceased) held at the same prison.

Contacted a U.S. Senator for assistance. Received his decision to agree with the AF.

This is contrary to the initial guideline dated 8 November 1985 approved by Congress, and signed by President Reagan in 1986. It Grand fathered back to 1917.

Suggestions?

Robert
Robersabel [at] aol [dot] com