Weston T. Smith

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Air Force Cross to Weston T. Smith, Major, U.S. Air Force, for extraordinary heroism in military operations against an opposing armed force near Ben Het, Republic of Vietnam, from 24 February 1969 to 25 February 1969. During this period, Major Smith directed close air support against one of the most heavily defended target complexes in the Republic of Vietnam. Despite intense, accurately directed hostile fire which damaged his unarmed aircraft, Major Smith was successful in directing the neutralization of the opposing force. With complete disregard for his own life, he saved the lives of many American and allied soldiers and prevented the strategically located friendly position from being overrun. Through his extraordinary heroism, superb airmanship, and aggressiveness in the face of hostile forces, Major Smith reflected the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.