On July 9, 2024, the peaceful setting of Grace Brevard Church in Brevard, NC, became the stage for a momentous occasion as Lt. Col. Ed Cottrell, USAF (Ret.), a distinguished WWII P-47 Thunderbolt pilot, was awarded the French Legion de l’Honneur Medal by French Consul General Anne-Laure Desjonquères. This prestigious recognition—France’s highest order of merit for military and civil achievements—honors Ed’s incredible service and bravery during World War II.

Lt. Col. Cottrell served with distinction in the 48th Fighter Group, 493rd Fighter Squadron, completing 65 combat missions, including pivotal operations such as the Battle of the Bulge. Among his many harrowing experiences, one stands out as a testament to both his skill and the extraordinary humanity found even in wartime.

On December 17, 1944, during a mission to locate Tiger tanks and bomb bridges, Lt. Col. Cottrell and his squadron encountered a group of German Me 109 Luftwaffe planes. Amid the intense aerial battle, Ed’s aircraft was struck by a 20mm cannon round, crippling his Pratt & Whitney engine—eight of its 18 cylinders were inoperable. Despite the overwhelming odds, he skillfully nursed his damaged aircraft back to an airfield in Belgium, executing a dead stick landing. In an astonishing act of wartime chivalry, two German Me 109 pilots—rather than finishing him off—escorted him back to ensure his safe landing, a moment that highlights the shared humanity that can emerge even in the darkest of times.

The awarding of the French Legion de l’Honneur to Lt. Col. Ed Cottrell is a fitting tribute to his heroism, resilience, and sacrifice in the fight for freedom. Our WNC-MOAA chapter is deeply honored to count such an extraordinary veteran among our members. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the values of courage, honor, and compassion that define our military legacy.

Congratulations, Lt. Col. Ed Cottrell! Your legacy continues to inspire generations, and we are proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition.