AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  EA-6

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Wayne R. Stacey for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving with Marine Composite Reconnaissance Squadron One, Marine Aircraft Group Eleven, First Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with operations against the enemy In the Republic of Vietnam. On the night of 5 January 1968, First Lieutenant Stacey launched as Pilot of an EA-6 electronic countermeasures aircraft assigned to support a single aircraft night interdiction mission against a heavily defended military installation deep in North Vietnam. When part of the aircraft's equipment malfunctioned and the navigational radar system became inoperative shortly after becoming airborne, he displayed exceptional aeronautical ability and resolute determination, as he skillfully and resourcefully employed alternate procedures to navigate his aircraft through the darkness over hazardous terrain to arrive at the pre-planned heading to the target area. Undaunted by the integrated defense of surface-to-air missiles and radar-controlled anti-aircraft weapons, First Lieutenant Stacey, despite the loss of his basic flight instruments and a seriously degraded navigational system, exhibited outstanding airmanship and composure as he established and maintained a precise orbit over the target area and instituted effective countermeasures that protected the strike aircraft and enabled it to accomplish the mission. As he departed the area, he was informed by his electronic countermeasures operator of instrument indications that a hostile aircraft was on an intercept course with his aircraft. When normal procedures failed to deceive the enemy's radar he demonstrated exceptional skill as he executed evasive maneuvers which succeeded in breaking contact with the enemy and enabled him to safely depart the area. First Lieutenant Stacey's superior aeronautical skill, bold determination and steadfast devotion to duty were instrumental in accomplishing the hazardous mission and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.