Medal, and the British Distinguished Service Order. He was named to the University of Kentucky Hall of Distinguished Alumni in February 1965, and to the Naval Aviation Hall of Honor in 1996. Joseph C. Clifton Award The Joseph C. Clifton Trophy was awarded for the first time in 1968, to VF-51. The award recognizes meritorious achievement by a fighter squadron while deployed aboard a carrier. The award is in memory of Rear Admiral Clifton, who distinguished himself as a fighter pilot during World War II. His heroism and extraordinary achievements in flight paralleled the aggressive attitude and drive and inspiring leadership he displayed throughout his life. This award recognizes meritorious achievement by a fighter squadron. The trophy, sponsored by Litton Industries, is a 22-inch high hand repoussé silver bowl on a walnut base. References External links "AIR: From the Snare of the Fowler", TIME, July 10, 1944 Joseph Clinton Clifton Papers, 1926-1971 MS 204 held by Special Collection & Archives , Nimitz Library at the United States Naval Academy 1908 births 1967 deaths United States Navy rear admirals United States Naval Aviators United States Navy pilots of World War II United States Navy personnel of World War II United States Navy personnel of the Korean War Recipients of the Distinguished Flying Cross (United States) Recipients of the Legion of Merit Recipients of the Air Medal Companions of the Distinguished Service Order