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 first Lieutenant Wallie W. Waltonen for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight over enemy-held North Korea on 3 May 1953. Flying as Pilot of a B-26 type aircraft, 17th Bombardment Wing Light, Fifth Air force, engaged in a night-interdiction mission, Lieutenant Waltonen displayed outstanding airmanship and flying skill. In the vicinity of Singo-san, Korea, a large enemy convoy was sighted. Six bombing attacks were made which caused six secondary explosions and four sustained fires and resulted in the destruction of nine vehicles. These attacks were pressed over hazardous mountain terrain despite intense fire from enemy automatic weapons and were continued until all ordnance was expended. As a result of this highly successful mission, vital enemy supplies and transportation facilities were destroyed. By his high personal courage and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Waltonen brought great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.