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 John E. Loftice, Warrant Officer, United States Army, Troop D (Air), 1 st Squadron, 4 th Cavalry, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam for action dated 17 November 1969: On this date, Warrant Officer Loftice was serving as the aircraft commander of his helicopter and the leader of a hunter-killer team conducting a visual reconnaissance approximately five miles southeast of Dau Tieng. When the pilot observed an unknown size North Vietnamese Army force, Warrant Officer Loftice immediately placed devastating suppressive fire upon the insurgent positions. An aero-rifle platoon was inserted into the contact area but was immediately subjected to intense hostile fire. Disregarding his personal safety, Warrant Officer Loftice remained over the hostile area and directed the insertion of two friendly companies and simultaneously directed an airstrike of the hostile emplacements. Continuing to risk his life, Warrant Officer Loftice provided protective fire for the medical evacuation of the wounded and the extraction of a downed aircraft. His courageous initiative and exemplary professionalism significantly contributed to the success of the encounter and the saving of several friendly lives. Warrant Officer Loftice's actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1 st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

2.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross (First Oak Leaf Cluster) to John E. Loftice, Warrant Officer, United States Army, Troop D (Air), 1 st Squadron, 4 th Cavalry, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam for action dated 23 February 1970: On this date, Warrant Officer Loftice was serving as the aircraft commander of a helicopter with a hunter-killer team 2 miles south of Ben Cat. While making a rocket pass over an enemy position, the aircraft was subjected to intense hostile fire which caused complete tail rotor failure. Acting with tactical deliberation, Warrant Officer Loftice recovered the aircraft from its dive, and he called for assistance. When a portion of the tail rotor came off, Warrant Officer Loftice managed to slow down his craft and prepare it for a crash landing. His courageous initiative and exemplary professionalism significantly contributed to saving the lives of his crew. Warrant Officer Loftice's actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1 st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.