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 Major Charles Ben Ertle, Jr. (AFSN: AO-3059070), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller near Kien Duc, Republic of Vietnam, on 1 September 1970. On that date, Major Ertle flew in support of a small friendly ground patrol in contact with a large hostile force. Despite intense ground fire and marginal weather, he repeatedly dove his unarmed aircraft low to mark the target for strike aircraft. Because of his actions, many lives were saved. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Ertle reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

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 Charles Ben Ertle, Jr. (AFSN: AO-3059070), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller near Bu Prang Special Forces Camp, Republic of Vietnam, on 25 October 1970. On that date, a United States Special Forces Patrol was overrun. Major Ertle displayed courage and tenacity as he fired into the hostile positions making repeated passes to harass the hostile force. Major Ertle’s heroic actions were instrumental in disorganizing the heavily armed hostile force and making re-supply of the friendly forces possible. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Ertle reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.