AWARDED DFC: 3
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  U-10, OV-10, O-1

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Cyril S. Johnson for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 31 May 1969. First Lieutenant Cyril S. Johnson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a pilot of a reconnaissance aircraft. He was informed that a Special Forces element was surrounded by an estimated company size enemy force. He adjusted artillery onto the enemy enabling the ground forces to withdraw from the encirclement of the enemy. He coordinated helicopter gunships to deliver effective fire power onto the enemy positions and assisted them in locating their targets by use of marking rockets. When darkness began to affect visibility, he requested a flareship for illumination to restrict the enemy's retreat. During the entire operation the aircraft was subjected to 50 caliber enemy ground fire, but due to his composure and professionalism the mission was entirely successful. His actions 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 Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Cyril S. Johnson for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 25 June 1969. First Lieutenant Johnson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a pilot of a reconnaissance aircraft in support of Naval units on the Vam Co Dong River. Sighting the enemy in a position to ambush the friendly elements, and unable to contact the friendly elements, he skillfully fired his rockets into the enemy locations to avert the ambush. He established communication with the friendly elements and directed their fire power onto the enemy location. The Naval forces then began receiving heavy fire from the enemy, and he made several low level passes to draw enemy fire, enabling the friendly units to gain fire superiority and successfully assault and subdue the foe. The professionalism and undaunted composure of Lieutenant Johnson great influenced the successful completion of the mission. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.