AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  -

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Albert L. Lanstra, Captain, Btry B, 4 th Bn (Aerial Arty), 77 th Arty (Ambl), for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam on 7 September 1969 to 8 September 1969. Captain Lanstra distinguished himself while serving as an aerial rocket artillery section leader near Nuoc Ngot Bridge, Republic of Vietnam. When Captain Lanstra arrived in the area, he flew at a very low level in marginal weather conditions in an attempt to locate the enemy force. Although his aircraft did not have effective protection, and there was sniper fire directed at his aircraft, he continued to fly at a low level until the insurgents were located, fired upon, and all his aircraft ordnance was expended. The next morning, the remainder of the enemy force was encountered. Again Captain Lanstra led his section through extremely rough weather between cloud shrouded hills, to engage and kill several more enemy troops. His courageous actions contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. Captain Lanstra's personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

2.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Albert L. Lanstra, Captain, Btry B, 4 th Bn (Aerial Arty), 77 th Arty, for heroism while participating in aerial flight in the Republic of Vietnam evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty on 3 October 1969. Captain Lanstra distinguished himself while serving as a crew member of a helicopter gunship. He was leading a gunship section in support of a reconnaissance platoon in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam. Despite marginal weather conditions, Captain Lanstra arrived in the target area in time to observe ground fire directed at an aircraft in the vicinity. Then two more enemy positions commenced firing at his aircraft. With great determination, he directed fire on all three positions and systematically eliminated them. Captain Lanstra's personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.