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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Norman Knofs for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty. Captain Knofs distinguished himself on 16 April 1967, while serving as Pilot of an OV-1 aircraft on a night infrared surveillance mission. Immediately after descending into the target area he located a ten-truck enemy convoy. After the infrared sensor system malfunctioned, he decided to continue the mission by visual means, despite extremely adverse conditions. His aircraft then came under fire from four .50 caliber machinegun positions. He immediately took evasive actions and assisted the observer in plotting the coordinates of the positions. After clearing the area, four 37mm anti-aircraft bursts were observed near the aircraft. He once again took evasive action and called in the positions to the control ship. Through his willingness to continue the mission under the most hazardous conditions, he contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the artillery service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.