AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  O-1

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant John A. Cressman for heroism while participating in aerial flight: First Lieutenant Cressman distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism while participating in military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 18 August 1969, while serving as an aerial observer with Headquarters Battery, 6th Battalion, 32d Artillery. At approximately 1700 hours on that day, Lieutenant Cressman was on a visual reconnaissance mission in the Ky Lo Valley when his aircraft was taken under fire by a large enemy ground force. Though he and his aircraft were in extreme danger, having suffered several direct automatic weapon hits, he remained in the vicinity above the enemy to obtain an accurate location of their position. Without regard for his own personal safety, Lieutenant Cressman directed a devastating artillery attack onto the enemy position, resulting in the killing of thirty-three enemy soldiers and the destruction of sixteen bunkers, five huts, and a large amount of ammunition and supplies. First Lieutenant Cressman's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.