AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  C-130E

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Staff Sergeant Richard M. Johnson for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a C-130E Flight Engineer at Khe Sanh, Republic of Vietnam, on 30 May 1968. On that date, Sergeant Johnson and his crew flew an urgent airlift mission consisting of three sorties to deliver highly explosive combat essential ammunition urgently needed by friendly forces defending Khe Sanh. In spite of the hazards of descending through intense hostile antiaircraft fire, Sergeant Johnson, with outstanding determination and professionalism, performed his duties in such a manner to make possible the successful completion of this vital mission. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Johnson reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.