AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  AC-47

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Joseph G. Petit for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an AC-47 Aircraft Commander over the Republic of Vietnam on 18 February 1966. On that date, Major Petit participated in a mission to provide close air fire support to the embattled defenders of a rescue recovery site which was being overrun by hostile forces. Arriving over the target, Major Petit braved intense anti-aircraft fire while maneuvering the aircraft in extremely hazardous mountainous terrain to press the attack on the hostile forces. Firing over 23,000 pounds of ammunition, Major Petit inflected very heavy casualties on the hostile forces and beat back their attack. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Petit reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.