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 with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Colonel Arthur Theodore Ballard, Jr. (AFSN: OF-31816), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an F-105 Pilot of the 13th Tactical Fighter Squadron at Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, in action over North Vietnam on 1 September 1966. On that date, Captain Ballard flew his heavily laden Thunderchief armed with high explosive bombs against a strategic petroleum storage area located in the heart of North Vietnam’s industrial complex. Inbound to the target three surface-to-air missiles were fired at his flight and MiG’s were encountered in the area. Although intense and accurate flak engulfed his target area, he made his bomb run and scored a direct hit, destroying a vital petroleum storage area. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Ballard reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.