AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Desert Storm
MODEL:  AV-8B

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Thomas G. Bogard, United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight while serving as Squadron Pilot VMA-542 in combat flight operations against enemy forces in the southeastern Kuwait Theater of Operations during Operation DESERT STORM on 17 January 1991. Piloting an AV-8B, Captain Bogard observed an Iraqi artillery battery which was effectively engaging the I MEF Forward Operating Base north of Ras al Khafji. Without hesitation, he repeatedly attacked the target ignoring thousands of rounds of anti-aircraft fire and multiple heat seeking surface-to-air missiles. Delivering his ordnance with devastating accuracy, Captain Bogard flew with total disregard for the integrated air defenses, expending his bomb load and returning to the fire swept skies over the target multiple times to finish the annihilation of the battery using his aircraft's 25MM internal gun. Captain Bogard's incredible courage, superior airmanship, and uncommon dedication to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.