AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  OV-10

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant John W. Van Etten for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller in Southeast Asia on 18 March 1972. On that date, Lieutenant Van Etten displayed outstanding courage and professional competence while assisting in search and rescue operations for two downed crewmembers deep in hostile territory. In the face of intense groundfire from multiple heavy caliber antiaircraft weapons, Lieutenant Van Etten remained over the survivors, contributed directly to saving the life of another pilot hit by groundfire, and cut several roads leading to the imperiled aircrew. His courageous efforts contributed immeasurably to the rescue of two downed crew members. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Van Etten 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 (First Oak Leaf Cluster) to First Lieutenant John W. Van Etten for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller in Southeast Asia on 6 April 1972. On that date, in spite of marginal weather, heavy groundfire, and surface to air missiles, Lieutenant Van Etten orbited his lightly armed reconnaissance aircraft at perilously low altitudes in support of rescue operations for two downed crewmembers. Due in large part to his professional efforts, both downed crewmembers were recovered. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Van Etten reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.