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

Citation:  1.) The Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. Captain Rentmeester distinguished himself while serving as an aviator in a light observation aircraft on a photo mission over enemy held terrain. After volunteering to fly a photo reconnaissance mission, he took off with two other aircraft on a low level photo mission over the heavily fortified Long Toan secret zone. Upon arrival in the area all three aircraft came under intense small arms and automatic weapons fire. When it became apparent that the other aircraft would have difficulty accomplishing their mission, he began to draw the enemy fire by firing his rockets and dropping smoke grenades. Spotting two Viet Cong junks unloading supplies, he released two deadly rockets which caused the Viet Cong to flee and destroyed the supplies. After receiving a call from his wingman who had taken a hit, he came to the aid of the crippled aircraft. For over two hours he remained in the area, continually exposed to unwithering enemy fire. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.