AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  O-2B

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Wesley J. Vettel for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an 0-2B Pilot over Southeast Asia on 23 June 1971. On that date, after having found a downed aircraft, Lieutenant Vettel acted as on-scene commander for a rescue operation. Despite marginal weather, mountainous terrain, and intense ground fire, Lieutenant Vettel's courage and unselfish dedication resulted in the saving of two valuable lives. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Vettel reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.