AWARDED DFC: 3
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  B-52D

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain John R. Harrison for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Co-pilot, B-52 Aircraft, 307th Strategic Wing, U-Tapao Airfield, Thailand, in Southeast Asia, on 18 June 1972. On that date, Captain Harrison flew in a cell of B-52's targeted against a high priority target in North Vietnam. Despite direct attack from numerous heavy anti-aircraft artillery positions and several aircraft equipment malfunctions, he was able to perform his duties and place the ordnance on target. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Harrison 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 Captain John R. Harrison for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Co-pilot, B-52 Aircraft, 307th Strategic Wing, U-Tapao Airfield, Thailand, in Southeast Asia, on 18 December 1972. On that date, Captain Harrison was flying on a high priority mission against a heavily defended target in North Vietnam. Despite the hazards presented by numerous surface-to-air missiles, Captain Harrison released his ordnance precisely on target and safely egressed from the high threat area. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Harrison reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

3.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain John R. Harrison for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Co-pilot, B-52 Aircraft, 307th Strategic Wing, U-Tapao Airfield, Thailand, from 19 December to 29 December 1972. During that period, Captain Harrison flew four night-bombing missions against heavily defended, vital military targets in North Vietnam. Despite hostile fighter interceptors, numerous surface-to-air missiles, and high caliber anti-aircraft artillery, Captain Harrison, with complete disregard for his personal safety, penetrated these defenses and released his ordnance precisely on target. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Harrison reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.