AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Desert Storm
MODEL:  A-6E

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander David H. Buss for heroism while participating in aerial flight against hostile Iraqi forces as a Naval Flight Officer flying in an A-6E aircraft serving with Attack Squadron 36 embarked in USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) steaming in the Arabian Gulf on 31 January 1991. Lieutenant Commander Buss was directed to conduct combat search and rescue operations for an AC-130 gunship suspected to be downed west of Mina Al Sa'ud, Kuwait. Because of reduced visibility, he searched at extremely low altitude, exposing himself to heavy anti-aircraft artillery fire and numerous heat-seeking missiles. After verifying the gunship was not in his assigned area, Lieutenant Commander Buss broadened his search and discovered a 40-truck Iraqi convoy. Under heavy ground fire, he executed a flawless attack destroying two vehicles with cluster munitions. Lieutenant Commander Buss' efforts denied enemy forces critical weapons and resupply on the eve of a major Iraqi ground offensive. By his uncommon valor, bold initiative, and loyal devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions, Lieutenant Commander Buss reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.