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 Lieutenant Colonel James William O’Neil (AFSN: AO-3023749/FR-46748A), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an F-105G Pilot over North Vietnam on 13 August 1972. On that date, while leading a flight of four F-105’s, Colonel O’Neil repeatedly engaged enemy air defense positions which included surface-to-air missile sites and enemy aircraft. With complete disregard for his own safety, he maneuvered his flight into optimum position combating the missile sites and enabling the strike forces to reach their targets, complete the mission, and safely withdraw. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Colonel O’Neil reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” to Major James William O’Neil (AFSN: AO-3023749/FR-46748A), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a combat aircrew member in Southeast Asia on 26 June 1966. On that date, while under intense and accurate fire from unfriendly forces, Major O’Neil demonstrated cool courage, undaunted determination, and superior skill in pressing home devastating air attacks against hostile positions. Persevering in the face of danger and death, he relentlessly and effectively aided in neutralizing the hostile forces. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Major O’Neil reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.