Major Derring of the 2nd Pursuit Squadron fought gallantly in every mission in the Kurland Campaign in 2009, on both sides of the conflict and against superior numbers of enemy. Major Derring's actions in this conflict are in the highest standards of the =AVG= and the United States Army Air Force, and a tribute to his Squadron and Group.
Aside from combat readiness, Major Derring displayed a high degree of leadership above and beyond his position, and was instrumental in providing training missions that contributed greatly to the readiness and success of the 2nd Pursuit Squadron and the =AVG= in this campaign.
