AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  -

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Staff Sergeant Michael P. Lutzko, Jr., for heroism in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force at DaNang Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, on 12 May 1968. On that date, Sergeant Lutzko was assigned to airlift 108 United States Marine Corps personnel from DaNang to Chu Lai on a combat support mission. During the loading process, hostile mortars impacted near the aircraft, causing all to seek shelter in adjacent bunkers. Recognizing the nonexistence of adequate bunker protection, Sergeant Lutzko, in complete disregard for his personal safety, immediately manned his aircraft and assisted in air-evacuating the endangered passengers, crew and aircraft to safety. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Lutzko reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.