AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  AC-130 A&E

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Airman First Class Steven W. Luckey for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an AC-130 Gunship Aerial Gunner over Laos on 20 January 1972. On that date, while on a night armed reconnaissance mission over heavily defended hostile supply routes, his actions led to the damage or destruction of 21 hostile supply vehicles and the creation of numerous secondary fires and explosions. Despite violent aircraft maneuvers to avoid intense barrages of accurate antiaircraft fire, he demonstrated resourcefulness and determination by maintaining ready firepower and made possible these extraordinary combat results. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Airman Luckey reflect great 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 (First Oak Leaf Cluster) to Sergeant Steven W. Luckey for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an AC-130 Gunship Aerial Gunner over Laos on 2 March 1972. On that date, while on a night armed reconnaissance mission, his actions led to the damage or destruction of 14 hostile supply vehicles and the ignition of five secondary fires and explosions. Putting aside his concern for personal safety in the face of 638 rounds of hostile antiaircraft fire, he succeeded in destroying large amounts of supplies and munitions destined for use against friendly forces. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Luckey reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.