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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander Patrick Arthur Day United States Navy for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a pilot of jet aircraft attached to Fighter Squadron THIRTY-ONE embarked in USS SARATOGA (CV-60). On 12 September 1972, Lieutenant Commander DAY led an element of strike fighters, assigned as flak suppressors, during a forty plane coordinated air wing attack against a major railroad yard complex in Southeast Asia. Flying deep into enemy territory, he led his section in a daring attack against the anti-aircraft artillery sites protecting the assigned target. Although two surface-to-air missiles were fired at his element, Lieutenant Commander DAY skillfully dropped all of his ordnance on target. His gallant efforts were instrumental in suppressing the enemy threat in the target area enabling the strike group to safely complete its mission with devastating results. Lieutenant Commander DAY'S superb leadership, courage and devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.