AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  O-2A

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Gerald L. Mitchell for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller near Phan Thiet, Republic of Vietnam on 28 October 1969. On that date, Captain Mitchell flew in support of a Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol which was under heavy attack by a numerically superior hostile force. Despite mountainous terrain, deteriorating weather and intense antiaircraft fire Captain Mitchell skillfully guided his unarmed aircraft low over the area to direct tactical air power which culminated in the successful exfiltration of the beleaguered unit. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Mitchell reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.