AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  OH-6A

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Jon M. Corey, First Lieutenant, United States Army, Air Defense Artillery, Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 1st Battalion 82d Artillery, Americal Division Artillery, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam: LT Corey distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 9 September 1969 while serving as an aerial forward observer with the Americal Division Artillery while on a reconnaissance mission in the Tien Phouc area. After spotting enemy troop movements on the ground, LT Corey consistently called in and effectively directed air and artillery strikes on a North Vietnamese Army troop concentration in spite of exceptionally heavy enemy ground fire, which hit his aircraft in several places. During the engagement LT Corey and his pilot located a 12.7 mm dual heavy machine gun emplacement which had previously shot down one other U.S. aircraft and had caused damage to their own helicopter. As friendly jet fighters had been unable to destroy the position, LT Corey and his pilot, who were both struck by shrapnel, elected to attack the enemy position in their LOH, utilizing white phosphorous grenades to destroy the machine gun emplacement as well as a confirmed squad size enemy unit. While enroute to their base LZ, LT Corey demonstrated extensive experience and keen judgment as he greatly assisted the more seriously wounded aircraft commander in successfully crash landing their extensively damaged helicopter. LT Corey's tenacious and aggressive actions were primarily responsible for the great success of the entire mission and the safe return of the aircraft. LT Corey's outstanding ability and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Americal Division and the United States Army.