AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  UC-123B

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Sergeant Kenneth M. Burton for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a Flare Kicker on a UC-123B in Southeast Asia on 15 March 1968. On that date, Sergeant Burton flew as a Flare Kicker on a UC-123B aircraft in support of attacks on truck supply convoys and road interdiction. Anti-aircraft fire was so heavy along the road segments that it was impossible to direct the fighter-bomber aircraft against the trucks without first suppressing the hostile ground fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Burton displayed skill in rapidly setting, loading, and dispensing flares during repeated passes over the hostile anti-aircraft gun positions to drop flares and draw their fire, exposing their position to the armed tactical aircraft. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Burton reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.