The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Army Award) to Major Walter J. Potock (AFSN: FV-3058410), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 26 September 1967, in Kontum Province, Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Major Potock, serving as a Forward Air Controller for Kontum Sector, received information that a Civilian Irregular Defense Group (CIDG) Company advised by United States Special Forces Personnel were heavily engaged with the North Vietnamese Battalion. The Civilian Irregular Defense Group Company was receiving heavy casualties and in dire need of outside assistance, and reaction time for the ground force to assist the Civilian Irregular Defense Group Company was such that it could not be provided for several hours. Major Potock, realizing the desperate situation of the friendly forces, immediately preceded in his O-1E aircraft to the battle area. He rapidly establish communication with the ground force, marked the target complex, and directed devastating air assaults against the enemy positions. He repeatedly flew at treetop level in assisting the ground force in breaking contact with the enemy and reorganizing. In so doing Major Potock’s aircraft drew heavy small arms fire from the enemy positions. He continued to fly at a low level to assist the Civilian Irregular Defense Group in selecting a helicopter landing zone for the evacuation of casualties and the landing of reinforcements. Major Potock provided continuous air coverage for the operation, stopping only for fuel and rearmament. He established a forward supply and operations base close to the combat operation to ensure valuable time was conserved during the necessary aircraft replenishment halts. His timely and accurate deliverance of necessary air support resulted in the complete route of the enemy unit. Major Potock’s actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Air Force, and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.