AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  AC-119K

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Staff Sergeant Patrick A. Kruger for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an AC-119K Flight Engineer in Southeast Asia on 20 March 1972. On that date, Sergeant Kruger and his crew flew an armed reconnaissance mission against heavily defended supply routes being used by hostile forces. Despite intense antiaircraft fire and unexpected maneuvers, Sergeant Kruger’s expert monitoring of aircraft systems resulted in the damage and destruction of several hostile vehicles. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Kruger reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

2.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (First Oak Leaf Cluster) to Staff Sergeant Patrick A. Kruger for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an AC-119K Navigator in Southeast Asia on 25 April 1972. On that date, Sergeant Kruger flew an armed reconnaissance mission against an area recently overrun by hostile troops and tanks. After locating a truck convoy and tank positions, Sergeant Kruger’s aircraft made repeated attacks despite very intense and accurate antiaircraft fire. Sergeant Kruger’s superior airmanship resulted in the destruction of two hostile trucks and five tanks. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Kruger reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.