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 Airman Second Class Francis P. Burdelak for extraordinary and meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight over enemy-held North Korea on 18 November 1952. Flying as Gunner of a B-26 type aircraft, 17th Bombardment Wing (Light), Fifth Air Force, engaged in a night interdiction bomber stream mission, Airman Burdelak displayed outstanding airmanship and skill. In spite of sub-marginal weather and obscured visibility, he quickly located the pre-briefed target, an enemy arsenal, in the vicinity of Haeju, Korea. Airman Burdelak immediately notified the rest of the crew to begin the bombing attack and then assisted the Pilot in making the attack, which resulted in eight very large blue-white secondary explosions. While in the target area, Airman Burdelak was constantly exposed to fire from enemy automatic weapons and the ever-present threat of attack by enemy aircraft. As a result of this highly successful mission, vital enemy munitions and supplies, and a vital enemy arsenal were destroyed. By his high personal courage, outstanding ability and devotion to duty, Airman Burdelak brought great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.