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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Sergeant James E. Hilton for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a C-130 Loadmaster at Khe Sanh, Republic of Vietnam, on 25 January 1968. On that date, Sergeant Hilton flew on a tactical emergency resupply mission to deliver vitally needed ammunition to friendly combat ground forces besieged at Khe Sanh. Under extremely hazardous and challenging conditions, Sergeant Hilton aggressively pursued and successfully completed this crucial mission. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Hilton reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.