AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  C-123K

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Staff Sergeant Jimmy P. Obi for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Loadmaster at Bu Dop Forward Operating Base, Republic of Vietnam on 11 November 1969. On that date, while delivering vitally needed ammunition to allied forces defending this strategic location, Sergeant Obi's aircraft was exposed to continuous mortar and rocket fire from hostile forces. Because of the requirement for Forward Air Controller and fighter support prior to landing and during ground operations, it was essential for Sergeant Obi to expertly configure his aircraft and cargo for speed offloading procedures. Sergeant Obi's actions were instrumental in the rapid and successful offloading of cargo resulting in minimum ground time and exposure of the aircraft and crew to the hostile environment. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Obi reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.