AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  VF-103

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander Jon Alfred Steele United States Navy for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a naval flight officer of jet aircraft attached to Fighter Squadron ONE HUNDRED THREE embarked in USS SARATOGA (CV 60). On 4 July 1972, Lieutenant Commander Steele was the radar intercept officer for the strike leader in a coordinated air wing attack against trans-shipment complex in Southeast Asia. He contributed immeasurably to the mission's success by significantly aiding in the planning and conduct of the flight. He skillfully assisted his pilot in directing the strike group to their optimum roll-in position and despite intense anti-aircraft artillery fire, provided weapons release parameters which resulted in his aircraft's ordnance impacting directly on target. Post-strike photography revealed that fifteen warehouses were totally destroyed, one was heavily damaged, and a petroleum storage area was completely destroyed. Lieutenant Commander Steele’s courageous leadership and aerial skill reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.