AWARDED DFC: 3
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  HH53-B

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (First Oak Leaf Cluster) to Captain John A. Panza Jr. for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an HH-53B Rescue Crew Co-Pilot in Southeast Asia on 21 May 1968. On that date, Captain Panza participated in a mission to rescue a downed O-2 pilot from unfriendly territory. Captain Panza navigated the helicopter to the area and handled the many radio calls required on the mission. Fuel was dumped by Captain Panza to allow hover upon arrival at the 3600 foot elevation. Throughout the rescue attempt, the helicopter received small arms fire and shrapnel bursts. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Panza 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 (Second Oak Leaf Cluster) to Captain John A. Panza Jr. for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an HH-53B Rescue Crew Copilot in Southeast Asia on 7 June 1968. On that date, Captain Panza safely navigated his aircraft over hostile and unfamiliar terrain in South Vietnam. During an extended hover, necessary to recover the remains of a crash victim, Captain Panza monitored the engine and transmission instruments of his helicopter. When it became necessary to refuel at a nearby landing zone, he energetically aided his crewmembers in rapidly refueling the helicopter while the landing zone was under heavy mortar attack, thus aiding in preserving a valuable aircraft and possibly the crew. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Panza reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.