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 Captain Antonio Maldonado for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an RF-4C Aircraft Commander in Southeast Asia on 9 September 1971. On that date, Captain Maldonado flew his unarmed reconnaissance aircraft over one of the most heavily defended areas in Southeast Asia to gather vitally needed intelligence concerning new surface-to-air missile sites and anti-aircraft positions. Despite marginal weather and accurate anti-aircraft fire he was able to completely cover the desired targets and provide timely photographic intelligence. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Maldonado reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.