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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS to Lieutenant Eric B. Burns United States Navy for service as set forth in the following: CITATION: “For heroism while participating in aerial flight as a pilot of jet aircraft while attached to Attack Squadron FIFTY-FIVE embarked in USS HANCOCK (CVA-19). On 26 May 1972, Lieutenant Burns was the leader of a division of surface-to-air missile suppression aircraft on a large air wing strike against an extremely heavily defended major bridge complex in Southeast Asia. Pressing directly into the lethal envelope of several surface-to-air missile sites ringing the target, and despite being taken under fire by surface-to air missiles and an intense barrage of heavy caliber anti-aircraft fire, he initiated aggressive attacks on two missile sites. His attacks completely silenced both sites and contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission and to the fact that not a single aircraft was lost over the target. Lieutenant Burns’ courageous leadership and aerial skill reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”