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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to David C. Ratajski, First Lieutenant, Corps of Engineers, United States Army, 74th Aviation Company, (Surveillance Airplanes) Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 9 January 1969. For heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: First Lieutenant Ratajski distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as pilot of an observation aircraft during a visual reconnaissance mission near Dau Tieng. Observing some civilians working in a field, he made a low pass to ensure that they were friendly, and then came back to warn them to clear the area because of scheduled artillery bombardment. On his second pass he received intense automatic weapons fire. Ignoring the hail of fire, Lieutenant Ratajski stayed at low level and marked the enemy positions with smoke grenades. After calling in friendly artillery to suppress the hostile ground fire, he remained at low level continually exposed to enemy fire to evaluate the success of the allied strikes. Lieutenant Ratajski’s relentless and determined efforts resulted in the complete success of the mission. First Lieutenant Ratajski’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.