AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  B-26

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Sam J. Ruvolo for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight over enemy held North Korea on 22 February 1953. Flying as navigator-bombardier of a B-26 type aircraft, 17 Bombardment Wing (Light), Fifty Air Force, engaged in a night interdiction mission, Lieutenant Ruvolo displayed outstanding navigation and bombing skill. In the vicinity of Wonsan, Korea, a large enemy convoy was sighted. Five bombing attacks were made which caused thirteen secondary explosions and five sustained fires and resulted in the destruction of thirteen ammunition laden vehicles. These attacks were pressed over extremely hazardous mountain terrain despite the ever present threat of attack by enemy aircraft and were continued until all ordnance was expended. As a result of this highly successful mission, vital enemy supplies and transportation facilities were destroyed. By his high personal courage and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Ruvolo brought great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.