AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  A-4C

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant (junior grade) John R. Suckow for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as the Pilot of a light jet attack aircraft, attached to and serving with Attack Squadron Seventy-six, embarked in USS Bon Homme Richard (CVA 31), in action against hostile enemy forces in North Vietnam on 1 July 1967. While flying an A4C light attack bomber on a major air wing strike against the Cao Duong Railroad Bridge and Bypass, Lieutenant (junior grade) Suckow conducted a highly effective individual bombing attack, achieving extraordinary results. The targets formed a vital link in North Vietnam's transportation system accommodating all rail traffic between Hanoi and the important industrial city of Nam Dinh. Important as it was, the main bridge's small size and hardened construction made absolute pinpoint bombing mandatory. Despite accurate ground fire over the target and high winds which made bombing extremely difficult, Lieutenant (junior grade) Suckow delivered his ordnance with absolute precision, obtaining direct hits which destroyed the bridge. By his extraordinary bombing accuracy, outstanding airmanship and personal bravery in the face of enemy fire, Lieutenant (junior grade) Suckow made a major contribution to the success of the mission. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.