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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Charles A. Szymanowicz, Captain, Air Defense Artillery, 74th Reconnaissance Airplane Company, United States Army, Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 1 October 1970 for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. Captain Szymanowicz distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a platoon liaison officer. When called upon to aid a friendly convoy marooned in hostile territory after dark, he voluntarily undertook the mission because a platoon sized enemy force was closing in on the disabled convoy. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Captain Szymanowicz flew through thunderstorms to reach the site of the stranded convoy. Upon arrival he quickly diagnosed the tactical situation and immediately established a radio relay net between the ground forces and their battalion operations. He made numerous flare drops to give the convoy commander a chance to consolidate forces and construct a defensive perimeter until the stranded vehicles were freed. Captain Szymanowicz then made continuous low passes over the area through intense enemy ground fire to plot enemy positions and relay this vital information to the battalion operations and convoy commander. Although dangerously low on fuel and subject to increasing ground fire, he refused to leave the convoy until another airplane could relieve him. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.