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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (First Oak Leaf Cluster) to Staff Sergeant John J. Pitzeruse who distinguished himself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a C-47 Airborne Morse Systems Supervisor in Southeast Asia on 5 October 1972. On that date, Sergeant Pitzeruse was flying an unarmed reconnaissance mission against unfriendly forces in direct support of local ground operations. With great determination and skill, he remained in the area dispite the threat of intense and accurate hostile fire. In spite of this he superbly accomplished this highly intricate and hazardous misslon in support of free world forces combating aggression. Through his personal bravery and energetic application of his knowledge and skill he significantly furthered the goal of the United States in Southeast Asia. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Pitzeruse reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.