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Wall of Honor Level:
Air and Space Friend

Honored by:
Mrs. John M. Franta

John M. Franta received two Distinguished Flying Crosses
The Distinguished Flying Cross (First Oak Leaf Cluster)
Lieutenant Colonel John M. Franta distinguished himself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an AC-119K Navigator in Southeast Asia on 22 February 1972. On that date, Colonel Franta and his crew were directed to attack a heavily defended supply route. Despite intense antiaircraft fire and unexpected aircraft maneuvers, Colonel Franta exhibited superior airmanship and courage in providing continuous firepower, resulting in the damage and destruction of several hostile supply vehicles. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Franta reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

The Distinguished Flying Cross
Lieutenant Colonel John M. Franta distinguished himself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Navigator on an AC-119K Gunship in Southeast Asia on the night of 11 May 1972. On this night Colonel Franta's crew was directed to give close air support to friendly forces in the besieged city of An Loc, Republic of Vietnam. Despite an extremely hostile environment, Colonel Franta's aircraft delivered accurate and positive fire against hostile gun positions. After expending all available ammunition Colonel Franta's crew dropped flares and acted as an airborne Forward Air Controller for fighter aircraft. The professional competence, serial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Franta reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.