AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  A-4E Skyhawk

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major John A. Jennings, Jr., United States Marine Corps for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight on 29 April 1966 while piloting an A-4E Skyhawk assigned to Marine Attack Squadron TWO TWO THREE in direct support of combat operations. Major Jennings was part of a four-plane flight assigned to strike a classified target deep in enemy territory, but bad weather forced a redirect to instead strike an improved road network within a heavily defended mountain pass. After the first aircraft encountered extremely heavy anti-air fire, apparently guided by a tracking system, Major Jennings began his attack without hesitation or concern for his own safety. Maneuvering through the onslaught of enemy fire, he released his weapons directly on target. The precise positioning of his bombs ensured the destruction of multiple enemy anti-aircraft gun emplacements. Immediately after his wingman delivered his own ordnance, Major Jennings witnessed a large explosion under the wingman's aircraft, followed by a complete loss of visual and radio contact. He immediately began searching for any sign of his comrade, and remained in the last known vicinity beyond his minimal return to the base fuel state until he was certain search and rescue aircraft were inbound. By his steadfast determination, superb airmanship, and unexcelled dedication to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions, Major Jennings reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.