AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  F-4D

Citation:  1.) The Distinguished Flying Cross, Lieutenant Colonel William A. Curnutte distinguished himself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an F-4D Aircraft Commander in the Republic of Vietnam on 27 January 1969. On that date, Colonel Curnutte led his flight against an important hostile bunker complex which had to be completely destroyed if allied forces were to ever gain control of the area. Colonel Curnutte led his flight through low clouds, steadily deteriorating visibility and mountainous terrain to completely destroy the target. The results Colonel Curnutte achieved are especially noteworthy considering that it was accomplished under conditions which caused others to turn back. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Curnutte reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

2.) Curnutte, William A., Lieutenant Colonel, United States Air Force, is awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (First Oak Leaf Cluster), Lieutenant Colonel William A. Curnutte distinguished himself by heroism while participating in aerial flight as F-4D Pilot, 390th Tactical Fighter Squadron, 366th Tactical Fighter Wing, Da Nang Air Force Base, Vietnam, on 17 January 1969. On that date, while on an aerial flight in Tchepone, Laos, Colonel Curnutte unhesitatingly and courageously led his flight into very severe anti-aircraft artillery fire, dropping his in country ordinance on numerous hostile gun emplacements occupied by an encampment of 10,000 NVA troops. Placing himself in an extremely hazardous situation, Colonel Curnutte flew his aircraft down in the weeds and provided the desperately needed support to keep the enemy from capturing a downed pilot and enabling his safe rescue. Colonel Curnutte's reputation as a superior fighter pilot was fully demonstrated on his mission. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Curnutte reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.