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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain James L. McVay for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller in Southeast Asia on 3 July 1970. On that date, Captain McVay flew in support of a long range reconnaissance team on patrol deep inside hostile territory. Captain McVay made repeated low strafing passes with his aircraft at hazardously low altitudes in the face of intense small arms and automatic weapons fire. Captain McVay's courage, dedication and complete disregard for his personal safety were directly responsible for a successful rescue operation and unquestionably saved the lives of Anmeican troops. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain McVay reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.