The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain (Infantry) John D. Liner (ASN: 0-533785), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty. Captain Liner distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander on a Special Forces insertion mission west of Dak To. Captain Liner volunteered to assist a platoon of men deep within enemy held territory. As he unloaded the infantrymen from his ship, it was hit by a heavy caliber round in the fuel cell and immediately caught fire. Taking off, the ship traveled at tree-top level, as he informed the chase ships that he was on fire and would have to get on the ground before the ship exploded. Maneuvering over the rugged terrain, he descended into tall elephant grass and saw that a safe landing would be successful. Upon landing, he and his crew then exited the flaming ship, taking all radio equipment and weapons, and boarded a rescue helicopter. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John D. Liner (ASN: 0-533785), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 189th Assault Helicopter Company, 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 14 July 1968. First Lieutenant Liner distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Aircraft Commander of a troop helicopter during a mission to extract a Special Forces Reconnaissance team deep within enemy held territory. The team was pinned down on a hilltop by an estimated company of the enemy. Lieutenant Liner quickly observed that the friendly position was much to confined to permit a helicopter to land and elected to complete the extraction by the use of McGuire Rigs. He hovered one hundred feet above the team members and directed the lowering of ropes to the men below. Despite the intense enemy fire, he held his aircraft at a steady hover. With the men properly harnessed, he began a slow vertical ascent to avoid injuring the two men below by dragging them through the trees. Subjected to relentless enemy fire, he continued his ascent successfully and flew to the nearest secure area. Lieutenant Liner’s courage, poise and professional flying ability contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.