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 Lieutenant Colonel Wallace J. McKenzie (AFSN: 0-26534), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an AC-47 Aircraft Commander near DaNang, Republic of Vietnam on 12 February 1969. On that date, Colonel McKenzie flew a close air support mission in defense of a United States and Republic of Korea Marine Patrol under attack by a hostile force using automatic weapons and mortar fire. Despite heavy ground fire directed at his aircraft and being unable to use flares for fear of illuminating friendly helicopters, Colonel McKenzie provided accurate fire which was necessary to silence a hostile gun position only 150 meters from the friendly position. The devastation unleashed by Colonel McKenzie broke the hostile assault and allowed an emergency medical evacuation to be completed. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Colonel McKenzie 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 a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel Wallace J. McKenzie (AFSN: 0-26534), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an AC-47 Aircraft Commander near Dong Ha, Republic of Vietnam, on 13 January 1969. On that date, Colonel McKenzie provided fire support for a small United States Marine Corps patrol which was completely surrounded by a large hostile force. Despite mountainous terrain, cloud cover and hostile anti-aircraft fire, Colonel McKenzie engaged the hostile forces with devastating mini-gun fire. He remained on target until dawn and successfully protected the surrounded patrol until it was safely evacuated. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Colonel McKenzie reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.