Foil: 6 Panel: Distinguished Flying Cross Society Column: 2 Line: 6

Wall of Honor Level:
Air and Space Friend

Honored by:

The Distinguished Flying Cross citation for service by Anthony J. Adessa on 5 December 1970 reads:

For heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: Lieutenant Colonel Adessa distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander of a utility helicopter. Just prior to darkness an Air Force forward air controller detected a large enemy force moving towards Phu Cat Air Base armed with automatic and crew-served weapons. Although weather was below safe flight minimums, Lieutenant Colonel Adessa unhesitantly volunteered to fly his aircraft and assist in repelling the large enemy force. While enroute to the target area Lieutenant Colonel Adessa initiated a call to the two assault helicopter companies located at An Son and had them scramble two armed helicopter fire teams. As Lieutenant Colonel Adessa arrived on station he immediately, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, began making passes on the enemy position. As the armed helicopters arrived on station, Lieutenant Colonel Adessa again exposed himself to the intense automatic weapons fire, marking the enemy positions for the armed helicopters. Nearly five hours after the fierce battle began, the enemy force retreated into the mountains. Lieutenant Colonel Adessa's conspicuous gallantry in the face of extreme personal danger resulted in the destruction of a well equipped and well armed enemy force, which, without his efforts, could have inflicted many casualties on friendly forces. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.