AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  B-26

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Airman First Class Frederick L. Verderber for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as gunner on a B-26 attack bomber with the 3d Bombardment Wing, Light, Fifth Air Force, on the night of 31 March 1953. While flying on a combination Road Block-Rail Reconnaissance mission, Airman Verderber exhibited extraordinary airmanship, aerial marksmanship, and crew coordination. Despite poor visibility due to haze, an effective roadblock was positioned with stoppage of enemy vehicular traffic. Between Pyongyang and Sariwon, Korea, an enemy supply vehicle was sighted and destroyed by strafing. South of Chinnampo two (2) effective rail cuts were accomplished despite battle damage encountered from ground fire directed at the attacking aircraft. During the course of the mission, an additional two supply vehicles were sighted and aggressively attacked and destroyed by fire and explosion. A hostile flak position was also attacked and silenced. This mission greatly aided the United Nations' Night Interdiction Program by depriving the enemy use of vital supplies, equipment, and means of transportation. By his outstanding courage and devotion to duty, Airman Vanderber has brought great credit upon himself, his organization, and the United States Air Force.