AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  B-52, EB-66

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Wendell L. Tackett for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a B-52 combat aircrew member assigned to the 4133d Bombardment Wing (Provisional), Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, on 13 February 1970. On that date, Major Tackett flew as Aircraft Commander on a highly critical mission over Vietnam. Major Tackett, Airborne Commander and Wave Leader, skillfully and professionally directed his wave through the entire combat mission. He insured successful completion of this vital mission, accurately and effectively delivering all ordnance on the assigned target though hazardous and adverse weather was repeatedly encountered. He contributed immeasurably to the success of the Strategic Air Command's Contingency Operation in Southeast Asia. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Tackett reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

2.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Wendell L. Tackett for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an EB-66 Aircraft Commander over Southeast Asia on 2 April 1972. On that date, while in support of a major bomber strike deep into inimical territory, his aircraft came under attack by two surface-to-air missile complexes. By the use of electronic countermeasures and with evasive maneuvers, Major Tackett was able to avoid the attacking missiles and complete his assigned mission. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Tackett reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.