AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  F-4C

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain David A. Wilson for heroism while participating in aerial flight as the aircraft commander of an F4C in Southeast Asia on 12 November 1965. On that date, Captain Wilson flew a close air support mission against a strategically located hostile position that was heavily defended by automatic weapons and anti-aircraft installations. After his ordnance was released, the aircraft was struck by a 37 mm shell which damaged many vital aircraft systems, however, Captain Wilson, with complete disregard for his personal safety, brought the aircraft back to home base and allowed the other fighters to recover first, before he made his approach end barrier engagement emergency landing. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Wilson reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.