AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  F-4B

Citation:  1.) The Distinguished Flying Cross on 6 January 1973. Captain Krone flew as the radar interceptor officer of a section of Marine F-4B Phantoms on a direct air support mission across the river from Saravane, Laos against multi-positioned anti- aircraft sites constructed to protect newly emplaced motor positions that had been bombarding the town. Even while circling the target area, the positions opened fire on the flight with extremely intense and accurate anti-aircraft artillery fire. Disregarding the threat he commenced the attack and was met by a barrage of enemy fire. Throughout multiple runs he supplied valuable tactical data and flight parameters to enable his pilot to concentrate on avoiding as much fire as possible and to hit the target with precise accuracy. The flight was credited with destroying four anti-aircraft guns and damaging at least two others. Captain Krone was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for courage, skill and devotion to duty in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service while a member of Marine Fighter Squadron 115. Marine Aircraft Group 15, Nam Phong, Thailand. Melvin P. Krone is a member of the Distinguished Flying Cross Society.