AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  -

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major James R. Patterson, Jr., for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller near Quang Hue on 14 January 1969. On that date, Major Patterson continued to direct air support for several hours for friendly ground forces engaged in close contact with aggressor forces even though his unarmed aircraft was continuously fired upon. While not directing air support, Major Patterson heroically flew at extremely low altitude to draw hostile fire away from a desperately needed aircraft evacuation of a seriously wounded American advisor. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Patterson reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.