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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant (junior grade) Douglas M. Olson for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a Pilot of jet aircraft attached to Attack Squadron Two Hundred Twelve embarked in USS Hancock (CVA 19). On 11 September 1972, Lieutenant (junior grade) Olson was assigned as a Section Leader of A4F aircraft on a major air wing strike against a prominent enemy railroad bridge in Southeast Asia. Maneuvering constantly on the long overland route to the target to deter enemy electronic activity and anti-aircraft fire, he quickly acquired the target. Disregarding intense enemy ground fire, he succeeded in launching his ordnance with the resultant effect of dropping the southern span of the bridge. Lieutenant (junior grade) Olson's superb airmanship and courage in the face of intense enemy reaction were instrumental in denying the enemy the future use of this vital bridge and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.