AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Non-Combat
MODEL:  F-4S

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS to Lieutenant Commander David H. Jaggers, United States Navy Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 30 April 1985 as Radar Intercept Officer of an F-4S Aircraft at Naval Air Station, Dallas, Texas. Shortly after take-off, Lieutenant Commander Jaggers’ aircraft experienced an explosion and right engine fire warning light while climbing out over an area of dense population. Advised by the flight leader of an intense fire engulfing the aft starboard section of the aircraft and knowing that every second he remained in the disabled aircraft decreased his chances of survival, Lieutenant Commander Jaggers nevertheless elected to stay with the aircraft in an attempt to steer it clear of the civilian population. He remained with the marginally controllable aircraft for over three minutes from the initial explosion. When the aircraft became completely uncontrollable, Lieutenant Commander Jaggers ejected, sustaining lacerations to the head. The aircraft impacted in the clear area and exploded with no injuries to civilians or damage to property. By his courage, superb airmanship, and steadfast devotion to duty at great personal risk, Lieutenant Commander Jaggers reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.