AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  A-6A

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS to Lieutenant Gary G. Wasson, United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a pilot of jet aircraft attached to Attack Squadron ONE HUNDRED FORTY-FIVE embarked in USS Ranger (CVA-61). On 20 December 1972, Lieutenant Wasson participated in a coordinated night strike against a surface-to-air missile site near Haiphong, North Vietnam. On his first night low level combat mission he meticulously planned a strike that demanded superior airmanship. Despite adverse weather conditions, he boldly penetrated a dark overcast and proceeded at a perilously low altitude. Approaching the coast, a hail of heavy and accurate gunfire greeted him. Lieutenant Wasson displayed superb airmanship in evading the flak while skillfully maintaining the preplanned route. Prior to bomb release, he bravely climbed to the minimum safe release altitude and delivered the ordnance on target. He then performed a dangerous and difficult breakaway maneuver from the target. Lieutenant Wasson’s outstanding professional skill, exceptional heroism and loyal devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.