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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Anthony A. Casadio, Sub Lieutenant, Aviator, Royal Australian Navy, 135th Aslt Hel Co, Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 18 November 1967 for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: Sub Lieutenant Casadio distinguished himself while serving as aircraft commander of an armed helicopter during a mission to protect a cargo vessel on the Song Ngn Bay River. Arriving in the target area, he immediately attacked a well placed enemy position. Ignoring the intensity of the hostile ground fire, he daringly pressed his attack. After his ship had become severely damaged from the numerous enemy rounds which it received, and with a sudden loss of fuel, he elected to make a forced landing into the only possible landing spot in the swampy area. Sub Lieutenant Casadio fearlessly and skillfully maneuvered his disabled ship through the intense hostile fire and executed an autorotation into an area along the edge of the river. Through his courage and superb airmanship, he was instrumental in the saving of a valuable aircraft, and saving the lives of his crew members. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, the United States Army, and the Royal Australian Navy.