David E. Sutphin DFC

The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Airman First Class David E. Sutphin for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an AC-130 Gunship Aerial Gunner over Laos on 22 January 1972. On that date, while on a night, armed reconnaissance mission, his actions led to the damage or destruction of 11 hostile supply vehicles and the ignition of 27 secondary fires and explosions. Putting aside his concern for personal safety in the face of 1300 rounds of hostile anti-aircraft fire, he succeeded in destroying large amounts of supplies and munitions destined for use against friendly forces. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Sutphin reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.