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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Lieutenant Colonel William A. Curnutte, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an F-4D Aircraft Commander in the Republic of Vietnam on 27 January 1969. On that date, Colonel Curnutte led his flight against an important hostile bunker complex which had to be completely destroyed if allied forces were to ever gain control of the area. Colonel Curnutte led his flight through low clouds, steadily deteriorating visibility and mountainous terrain to completely destroy the target. The results Colonel Curnutte achieved are especially noteworthy considering that it was accomplished under conditions which caused others to turn back. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Curnutte reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel

    Action Date:

    January 17, 1969
    Citation Courtesy of the Distinguished Flying Cross Society – www.dfcsociety.org

    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 William A. Curnutte, United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as F-4D Pilot, 390th Tactical Fighter Squadron, 366th Tactical Fighter Wing, DaNang Air Force Base, Vietnam, on 17 January 1969. On that date, while on an aerial flight in Tchepone, Laos, Colonel Curnutte unhesitatingly and courageously led his flight into very severe anti-aircraft artillery fire, dropping his in country ordinance on numerous hostile gun emplacements occupied by an encampment of 10,000 North Vietnamese Army troops. Placing himself in an extremely hazardous situation, Colonel Curnutte flew his aircraft down in the weeds and provided the desperately needed support to keep the enemy from capturing a downed pilot and enabling his safe rescue. Colonel Curnutte’s reputation as a superior fighter pilot was fully demonstrated on his mission. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Curnutte reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.