The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” to Captain Lee J. Smith, United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an F-4E Aircraft Commander over Southeast Asia on 11 May 1972. On that date, Captain Smith participated in an extremely hazardous mission in support of two strike forces attacking a heavily defended high priority target area deep in North Vietnam. Despite the hazards of numerous surface-to-air missiles, hundreds of rounds of antiaircraft artillery fire, and hostile fighters directed at his aircraft, he successfully supported the strike forces in destroying the assigned targets. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Smith reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Distinguished Flying Cross
Service:
United States Air ForceRank:
First LieutenantAction Date:
August 18, 1968 – August 22, 1969
(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 First Lieutenant Lee J. Smith, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in Southeast Asia, from 18 August 1968 to 22 August 1969. His professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty under all conditions serve as an inspiration to his fellow flyers. His actions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
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Distinguished Flying Cross
(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Captain Lee J. Smith, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in Southeast Asia, on 1 September 1970. His professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty under all conditions serve as an inspiration to his fellow flyers. His actions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.