AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Operation Allied Freedom
MODEL:  F-14A

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander Walter E. Carter for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Naval Flight Officer of an F-14A aircraft assigned to Fighter Squadron Fourteen during combat operations against the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia on 6 April 1999. As the Strike Leader for the first U.S. Navy strike of Operation Allied Force, Commander Carter flawlessly led a highly successful integrated attack on the Pristina Petroleum Facility. Engaged by multiple SA-6 surface-to-air missiles and anti-aircraft artillery fire, he safely guided the strike package to the target while resolving weapons system degrades in his aircraft that hampered target acquisition. Through exceptional knowledge of the F-14A systems, Commander Carter acquired the target and precisely delivered two laser-guided weapons against the critical fuel pumping station. With weapons in flight, he was once again engaged by SA-6 surface-to-air missiles. In the face of great danger, Commander Carter continued to guide weapons in the critical final seconds of flight to achieve a direct hit on the oil facility and destroy the assigned storage tanks. The massive secondary explosions were visible for miles, achieving the desired tactical and psychological effects. Following attack, Commander Carter precisely navigated the strike package through enemy country to safety. By his superb airmanship, courage under fire, and steadfast devotion to duty, Commander Carter reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.