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 Technical Sergeant Louis Edward LeBlanc, Jr. (AFSN: AF-12450593), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a B-52 combat aircrew member assigned to the 4133d Bombardment Wing (Provisional), Anderson Air Force Base, Guam, on 18 July 1968. On that date, Sergeant LeBlanc flew as gunner on a highly critical mission over Vietnam. He demonstrated outstanding airmanship by directing an emergency release of weapons by the following aircraft, while maintaining a constant vigil for hostile aircraft. He contributed immeasurably to the success of the Strategic Air Command’s contingency operation in Southeast Asia. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant LeBlanc 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 a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” to Master Sergeant Louis Edward LeBlanc, Jr. (AFSN: AF-12450593), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a B-52 Gunner in Southeast Asia on 22 December 1972. On that date, Sergeant LeBlanc participated in high priority bombing missions against vital military targets in heavily defended areas of North Vietnam. Despite the intensity of the defensive reaction and the extreme hazard posed by numerous surface-to-air missiles and hostile interceptors, Sergeant LeBlanc displayed extraordinary courage and a remarkable ability to place the mission requirements above his personal safety. He maintained a constant watch for enemy fighter attack and other threats, thus enabling his crew to deliver their ordnance on the designated targets. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant LeBlanc reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.