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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Theodore W. Clymer, WO1, C Trp, 7/17th Air Cav, United States Army, Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 5 June 1972 for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: Warrant Officer Clymer distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as the pilot of a utility helicopter working in support of the Phu-My and LZ Crystal operation. An observation helicopter was shot down and Warrant Officer Clymer landed immediately to extract the downed crew. Receiving intense fire and numerous hits in the aircraft, he departed the pick up zone after not being able to locate the downed crew. He then got the downed crew’s position from a gunship and made another approach into the pick up zone. Again receiving intense fire and numerous hits in the aircraft, Warrant Officer Clymer affected the pick up of the downed crew, but his helicopter was shot down and crashed on take off. After exiting the aircraft under intense enemy fire, he retrieved his weapon and ammunition and moved to a dike and helped establish a defensive perimeter. Warrant Officer Clymer repulsed an enemy attack with effective small arms fire and when a rescue helicopter landed he remained at the dike, providing suppressive fire until all other personnel were safely aboard the helicopter. After being extracted, Warrant Officer Clymer, although injured himself, administered first aid to the injured personnel. His valorous actions helped save the lives of five air crewmembers. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.