AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  -

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Warrant Officer One Keith E. Carson for heroism while participating in aerial flight. Warrant Officer Carson distinguished himself by heroic actions while participating in aerial flight during the period 21 to 22 June 1966, near Tuy Hoa, Republic of Vietnam. Warrant Officer Carson, acting as Pilot of a medical evacuation helicopter in support of the 101st Airborne Division, volunteered to perform, and successfully completed, six missions to rescue seriously wounded Americans under the most hazardous of conditions. Warrant Officer Carson successfully rendezvoused with gunships and evacuated seriously wounded Americans from various pickup sites. During these evacuations he, his crew, and aircraft were a constant target for enemy fire. Displaying courage, valor and confidence, Warrant Officer Carson continued to affect low level, high speed and extremely evasive approaches into the pickup areas, completely disregarding his own safety. In all cases, he successfully completed his missions. Warrant Officer Carson was directly responsible for the saving of thirty-two American lives. His successful efforts, under the most hazardous of situations, were in in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.