AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  O-2A

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Thomas J. Gresch for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller in Southeast Asia on 6 March 1969. On that date, while piloting an unarmed O-2A aircraft on a reconnaissance mission deep into hostile territory, Lieutenant Gresch discovered five military vehicles along a heavily defended supply route used by unfriendly forces to move men and supplies. In spite of intense and accurate ground fire, Lieutenant Gresch skillfully directed tactical airpower against the target, resulting in the destruction of four of the five vehicles, and the immobilization of the fifth. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Gresch reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

2.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Thomas J. Gresch for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller in Southeast Asia on 23 august 1969. On that date, Lieutenant Gresch was flying in an unarmed 02A aircraft in support of a friendly long-range reconnaissance patrol deep within hostile territory. Despite heavy automatic anti-aircraft fire and rapidly changing weather conditions, he calmly and efficiently directed tactical airpower against hostile forces attacking the position of the friendly patrol. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Gresch reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.