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

Citation:  1.) The highest degree of airmanship. As the Mission Commander, he masterfully led his division of strikers into the dangerous surface-to-air missile engagement zone protecting Baghdad and successfully destroyed the Al Hurriyah Radio Relay Facility. Commander Denneny's strike was the first non-stealth coalition strike package of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM to penetrate the defenses of the Iraqi capital. When presented with the delay of his critical surface-to-air missile suppression assets, he heroically elected to press on to the target in challenging weather conditions. Undaunted by the near continuous surface-to-air missile launches and unrelenting anti-aircraft artillery bursts, he expertly delivered his ordnance with devastating results. By his superb airmanship, inspiring courage, and loyal devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions, Commander Denneny reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.