AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  O-2B

Citation:  1.) The AWARD OF THE DISTIGUISHED FLYING CROSS WILLIAM K. KASTNER Staff Sergeant William K. Kastner distinguished himself by heroism while participating in aerial flight as an O-2B Intelligence Observer near Da Nang, Republic of Vietnam, on 16 March 1970. On that date, Sergeant Kastner, demonstrated exceptional courage and professionalism while flying on a visual reconnaissance mission during which his aircraft was damaged by intense ground fire. Though seriously wounded, Sergeant Kastner continued to record and relay vital intelligence data which was later used as the basis for a successful operation in the area by friendly forces. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Kastner reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.