AWARDED DFC: 3
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  RF-8G

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Paul Ringwood, United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a pilot of jet aircraft attached to Light Photographic Squadron SIXTY-THREE, Detachment THREE embarked in USS MIDWAY (CVA-41). On 23 May 1972, Lieutenant Ringwood was the leader of a photographic reconnaissance flight supporting an air strike against targets in Haiphong, North Vietnam. In response to a rapidly changing tactical situation, Lieutenant Ringwood skillfully altered his planned route to provide a more expeditious, though considerably more hazardous, flight plan. He aggressively maneuvered his flight in the face of adverse weather and intense enemy opposition, to obtain excellent photography of the target and of several additional areas of importance. Lieutenant Ringwood's courage, superb airmanship and resourcefulness in successfully deviating from his planned route were instrumental in achieving vital intelligence information and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

2.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of the second Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Paul Ringwood, United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flight while serving in Light Photographic Squadron SIXTY-THREE, Detachment THREE embarked in USS MIDWAY (CVA-41). On 9 September 1972, Lieutenant Ringwood was the leader of a photographic reconnaissance flight supporting an air strike against military targets in Phu Ly, North Vietnam. Crossing the coast several minutes behind the strike group he skillfully maneuvered his section toward the target in spite of the low clouds and haze in the area. Boldly persisting on course, Lieutenant Ringwood defensively maneuvered his flight to avoid a surface-to-air missile that passed between the aircraft. Acquiring the strike group's target, he established the low altitude, wings level profile, and obtained excellent coverage while receiving heavy anti-aircraft fire. Lieutenant Ringwood's superb airmanship, courage, and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

3.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in Lieu of the third Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Paul Ringwood, United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a pilot of jet aircraft attached to Light Photographic Squadron SIXTY-THREE, Detachment THREE embarked in USS MIDWAY (CVA 41). On 11 October 1972, Lieutenant Ringwood was the leader of a photographic reconnaissance flight supporting an air strike against the Gia Lam Railroad Yard near Hanoi, North Vietnam. Despite a low layer of clouds over his planned route of flight, he continued toward the target. Approaching the target Lieutenant Ringwood skillfully evaded two surface-to-air missiles and boldly continued his reconnaissance run to obtain excellent coverage of the target and additional military facilities throughout the area. Lieutenant Ringwood's courage, superb airmanship and heroic actions were instrumental in achieving vital intelligence information and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.