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 Captain John E. Elsey for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller in Southeast Asia on 14 April 1971. On that date, he flew in support of friendly troops in contact with a hostile force. Disregarding intense anti-aircraft fire, he repeatedly dove his unarmed aircraft at the hostile positions to mark targets for strike aircraft. Because of his actions many lives were saved. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Elsey reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.