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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Warrant Officer Michael J. Cherf for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam on 12 November 1969. Warrant Officer Cherf distinguished himself while serving as pilot of a UH-1H helicopter during a resupply mission near Dong Ha Mountain, Republic of Vietnam. During the mission, he intercepted a call for a medical evacuation from a heavily engaged unit. He went to the site and approached the landing zone without gunship cover. The aircraft encountered heavy small arms and automatic weapons fire, but Warrant Officer Cherf descended into the landing zone to pick up the wounded personnel. Lifting off the landing zone, the aircraft received intense enemy fire and was brought down. Warrant Officer Cherf quickly pulled out the wounded from the aircraft and moved the securing force away from the helicopter. Minutes late the aircraft was hit with rocked propelled grenades, exploded, and burned. Through his courage and sound judgement, Warrant Officer Cherf contributed greatly to the safety of his crew and the personnel on the ground. Warrant Officer Cherf's personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.