AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  A-4

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander Walter E. Ohlrich, Jr., for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight in jet aircraft while attached to Attack Squadron Ninety-Five, embarked in USS Intrepid (CVS 11) conducting an aerial attack against the rail and shipping complex at Thanh Hoa, North Vietnam on 22 September 1966. Commander Ohlrich, as a flight leader of 20 jet attack aircraft participating in a multi-carrier attack, planned and directed the approach of his strike group to assigned targets in the heavily defended Thanh Hoa area. By coordinating his formation to maximum tactical advantage he was able to effectively suppress enemy anti-aircraft fire, thereby affording bomber aircraft the opportunity to press home their attack with minimum harrassment. The high-speed low-altitude retirement proved particularly effective as the entire strike group was under fire of the off shore gun emplacements for many miles past the beach. Commander Ohlrich's precise planning and execution resulted in total destruction of assigned rail sections, boxcars, and storage areas without the loss of, or damage to, a single friendly aircraft. Commander Ohlrich's exceptional performance and remarkable airmanshp were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.