AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  C-47

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Staff Sergeant Bobby J. Cole for extraordinary achievement, devotion to duty and courage while participating in aerial flight over enemy territory on 24 May 1952. As radio operator on an unarmed, unescorted C-47 cargo type aircraft, he flew a special leaflet mission over North Korea. During the run over the target, the aircraft sustained major battle damage. Sergeant Cole immediately contacted friendly forces and informed them of the emergency. He continuously informed the friendly forces of the aircraft's position until it arrived over the home station. Sergeant Cole then secured all articles in the aircraft during the emergency landing so that no crew member would be injured by flying objects. Staff Sergeant Cole's ability, leadership and devotion to duty is a great credit to himself, the military service, and the United States Air Force.