AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  CH-47

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Michael B. Clark, Captain, Field Artillery, United States Army, Company B, 228th Aviation Battalion (Assault Support Helicopter) (Airmobile) for heroism while participating in aerial flight in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Clark distinguished himself by heroism in action on 5 October 1968, while serving as the aircraft commander of a CH-47 helicopter in support of combat assault operations being conducted near Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam. Captain Clark was piloting the second CH-47 helicopter in a flight of three which were part of a formation of UH-1's assaulting a landing zone when his aircraft came under heavy automatic machine gun fire. With the number two engine disabled by gunfire, and on fire, Captain Clark, displaying exceptional flying skill, was able fly his severely damaged aircraft to a landing area out of immediate danger from hostile forces, and land in an extremely small clearing, single engine, with no loss of life and minimal damage to his aircraft other than that caused by the enemy gun fire and resulting engine fire. He was then able to extinguish the engine fire and organize the infantrymen that were passengers aboard the aircraft into a defensive perimeter until rescue forces were able to extract them from the area. His display of personal bravery, knowledge of emergency procedures and devotion to duty is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, this unit, and the United States Army.