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 Duane E. Vandenberg, United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a RF-4C Navigator over North Vietnam, on 21 May 1968. On that date, Major Vandenberg’s skill and persistence were paramount in obtaining the assigned military objective in the presence of hostile action. To successfully accomplish the objective, he was subjected to continuous hostile antiaircraft, missile and MIG threats through the most heavily defended area yet encountered in aerial combat. the outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Major Vandenberg reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
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Awards Received
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Distinguished Flying Cross
Citation Courtesy of the Distinguished Flying Cross Society – www.dfcsociety.orgThe 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 Major Duane E. Vandenberg, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a RF-4C Navigator over North Vietnam, on 7 July 1968. On that date, Major Vandenberg’s skill and persistence were paramount in obtaining the assigned military objective in the presence of hostile action. To successfully accomplish the objective, he was subjected to continuous hostile antiaircraft, missile and MIG threats through the most heavily defended area yet encountered in aerial combat. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Vandenberg reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.