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 Second Lieutenant Delio G. Colonna for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. Second Lieutenant Colonna distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 19 April 1968, while serving as a Pilot of a UH-1H armed helicopter during a combat assault mission in the A Shau Valley, Republic of Vietnam. While air assaulting troops into enemy-controlled terrain, under adverse weather conditions, Lieutenant Colonna exposed himself to intense hostile ground fire as he approached and departed the embattled landing zone. Although numerous aircraft were downed by enemy ground fire and many more had taken hits, Lieutenant Colonna safely completed six additional lifts of troops and supplies into the valley throughout the day. Lieutenant Colonna's outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.