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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 with Combat “V” to First Lieutenant Thomas J. Gresch, United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller in Southeast Asia on 6 March 1969. On that date, while piloting an unarmed O-2A aircraft on a reconnaissance mission deep into hostile territory, Lieutenant Gresch discovered five military vehicles along a heavily defended supply route used by unfriendly forces to move men and supplies. In spite of intense and accurate ground fire, Lieutenant Gresch skillfully directed tactical airpower against the target, resulting in the destruction of four of the five vehicles, and the immobilization of the fifth. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Gresch reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Action Date:

    August 23, 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 to First Lieutenant Thomas J. Gresch, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller in Southeast Asia on 23 August 1969. On that date, Lieutenant Gresch was flying in an unarmed 02A aircraft in support of a friendly long-range reconnaissance patrol deep within hostile territory. Despite heavy automatic anti-aircraft fire and rapidly changing weather conditions, he calmly and efficiently directed tactical airpower against hostile forces attacking the position of the friendly patrol. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Gresch reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.