AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  AC-130U

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Seth M. Junkins for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a B-52G Aircraft Commander, 1708th Provisional Bombardment Wing at Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on 11 February 1991. On that date, leading a fifteen ship integrated strike force deep into Iraqi territory, Captain Junkins directed and integrated a combined strike force targeted against a vital Iraqi nuclear facility. Following a rendezvous deep inside Iraq, Captain Junkins kept the package together during many course and altitude changes to keep his wingman clear of severe weather and surface-to-air missile sites. He then guided his aircraft directly to the target despite heavy anti-aircraft artillery and surface-to-air missile launches, scoring three direct hits on the main building of the complex. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Junkins reflect 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 to Lieutenant Colonel Seth M. Junkins for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as AC-130U Aircraft Commander, 4th Special Operations Squadron Deployed, 16th Special Operations Wing at an undisclosed location on 19 October 2001. On that date, Colonel Junkins' aircraft experienced a catastrophic weapon failure of the twenty-five millimeter gun while supporting special operations forces during the first missions of Operation Enduring Freedom. Upon notification by the gun crew of the weapon's malfunction, Colonel Junkins took immediate action to ensure the safety of his aircraft and crew while continuing to provide armed support of numerous ground parties and other assault aircraft. The actions taken by Colonel Junkins ensured the safety of his crew and the successful support of Special Operations Forces on the ground. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Junkins reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.