The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Fourth Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Fifth Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” to Colonel Frederick Corbin Blesse (AFSN: 0-17010A), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as Aircraft Commander of an F-4C tactical jet fighter near the Demilitarized Zone, Democratic Republic of Vietnam, on 8 July 1967. On that date, Colonel Blesse risked his life by making multiple passes against heavily defended artillery positions that were shelling the friendly allied installation at Dong Ha. In spite of intense anti-aircraft fire, his devastating attacks succeeded in silencing the artillery positions. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Blesse reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.