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 Captain Orlan L. Peterson for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in Laos. Captain Peterson distinguished himself on 13 March 1971 while serving as Pilot of an AH-1G armed helicopter in support of Army of the Republic of Vietnam troops in Laos. When accompanying aircraft came under heavy enemy machine gun fire, Captain Peterson countered with accurate rocket fire, silencing the hostile position. He silenced a second enemy position when it also fired on an accompanying aircraft. He destroyed numerous hostile bunker positions inflicting heavy enemy casualties, after they were marked by friendly ground troops. Captain Peterson's outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.