AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  HH-53

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Thomas R. Waldron for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an HH-53 Aircraft Commander in Southeast Asia 22 April 1970. On that date, Captain Waldron participated in the rescue of an American Airman from heavily defended hostile territory. Despite the constant threat of hostile ground fire, Captain Waldron provided close protective cover and vital communications relays on scene for the rescue helicopter. Captain Waldron’s energetic application of his knowledge and skill significantly contributed to the successful accomplishment of this dangerous rescue mission. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Waldron reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.