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 Major Jerry R. Swanson, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the Republic of Vietnam on 29 June 1967. On that date, Major Swanson was the aircraft commander of a Vietnamese Air Force C-47 on a night flare drop mission directed to provide flare support for friendly ground forces undergoing an attack. Major Swanson showed great determination and courage by remaining in the area and flying the flare drop patterns completely by instruments in order to provide the critically needed illumination. As a result of his outstanding perseverance the friendly forces were greatly assisted in their struggle. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Swanson reflect great credit upon himself and the United State Air Force.