Air Force Cross Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” to First Lieutenant Karl Wendell Richter (AFSN: 0-78872), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight while serving as Pilot of an F-105 fighter aircraft of the 41st Tactical Fighter Squadron, 388th Tactical Fighter Wing, Korat Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand, in action near Hanoi, North Vietnam, on 21 September 1966. On that date, while attacking a heavily defended target, Lieutenant Richter’s leader was attacked by two MiG-17’s. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Lieutenant Richter attacked and destroyed one of the MiG-17’s and caused the other to break off his attack. Lieutenant Richter’s courageous and aggressive attack against a highly maneuverable foe enabled his leader and wingman to safely return to their forward base. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Richter reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.

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