AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  C-130A

Citation:  1.) The AWARD OF THE DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS (FIRST OAK LEAF CLUSTER) TO PRESTON E. HIGGINS Lieutenant Colonel Preston E Higgins distinguished himself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a C-130A Forward Air Control/Flare Aircraft Commander in Southeast Asia on 4 February 1970. On that date, Colonel Higgins flew a tactical mission requiring night visual reconnaissance, flare illumination and forward air control of armed strike aircraft over hostile occupied territory. With outstanding determination and superior airmanship, Colonel Higgins continued to exploit the target area despite the intense and accurate hostile anti-aircraft fire. This single act by Colonel Higgins resulted in a significant loss of vitally needed supplies by the hostile forces. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Higgins reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.