AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  AC-130

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Frank A. Morton for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an AC-130 Gunship Aircraft Commander in Laos on 19 January 1971. On that date, while on a night armed reconnaissance mission over heavily defended hostile supply routes, he directly assisted in the damage or destruction of 20 hostile supply vehicles, the creation of three secondary fires and the ignition of two secondary explosions. His aerial skill enabled concentrated and accurate firepower to be directed upon the hostile forces thus dealing a severe blow to their supply lines. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Morton 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 to Major Frank A. Morton for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an AC-130 Gunship Pilot in Laos on 17 March 1971. On that date, while on a night armed reconnaissance mission, his actions led to the damage or destruction of 25 hostile supply vehicles and the ignition of three secondary fires and one secondary explosion. Putting aside his concern for personal safety in the face of 168 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 Major Morton reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.