AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  A-6A

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Bruce Banks Byrum, United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a pilot of jet aircraft attached to Marine All Weather Attack Squadron Two Two Four embarked in USS Coral Sea (CVA 43). On 9 May 1972, First Lieutenant Byrum took part in the extremely successful mining of Haiphong Harbor, North Vietnam. The closing of the enemy's major harbor and main source of supplies was a critical blow and its execution was exceptionally precise and effective. Utilizing a difficult low-level, high-speed delivery, he encountered both enemy anti-aircraft fire and continuous indications of surface-to-air missile firings. Gallantly pressing his attack in a vulnerable wings-level delivery, he disregarded the threats to his aircraft and personal safety and delivered his ordnance with utmost precision. First Lieutenant Byrum’s exceptional professionalism and single-minded devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.