AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  RF-4C

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Darrel K. Kalbfleisch for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an RF-4C Navigator over North Vietnam on 3 September 1968. On that date, Major Kelbfleisch's skill and persistence were paramount in obtaining the assigned military objective in the presence of hostile action. To successfully accomplish the objective, this aviator subjected himself to continuous deadly anti-aircraft, missile, and MIG threats through the most heavily defended area of North Vietnam. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Major Kalbfleisch reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.