AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  AH-1G

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Edward H. Crowe, United States Marine Corp Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight while serving as a Pilot with Marine Light Helicopter Squadron 367, Marine Aircraft Group Sixteen, First Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 11 September 1970, First Lieutenant Crowe launched as Aircraft Commander of the fourth aircraft in a flight of four AH-1G Cobra helicopters assigned the mission of supporting the insertion of a friendly force into a mountainous area deep in enemy-controlled territory which was heavily defended by numerous enemy antiaircraft weapon sites. En route to the operating area, he was charged with the responsibility of covering the left flank of the transport while proceeding over unfamiliar mountainous terrain under a low ceiling and constantly subjected to hostile automatic weapons fire. Arriving over the designated area, First Lieutenant Crowe quickly located the landing zone and maneuvered to a position from which he could provide maximum protection for the insertion aircraft as they approached the zone. When the entire flight came under intense enemy fire, several rounds of which damaged his gunship, he boldly maneuvered his Cobra on repeated rocket and strafing runs and delivered his ordnance with such devastating effectiveness that the transports were able to land, disembark their troops, and depart from the dangerous area. Upon receipt of the emergency mission to extract the casualties from the heavily engaged friendly force on 13 September, First Lieutenant Crowe returned to the hazardous area and resolutely braved the hostile fire to lay down a smoke screen and deliver highly effective covering fire which enabled the wounded to be extracted. One of the transports was so seriously damaged that it was forced to land in a nearby open area shortly after if had lifted out o the landing zone. With complete disregard for his own safety, First Lieutenant Crowe again laid down a smoke screen and delivered such effective fire during repeated rocket and strafing runs that the enemy fire was suppressed sufficiently to enable the downed crew to be safely extracted. The following day, he again provided such excellent covering fire that the remainder of the friendly ground force was extracted. First Lieutenant Crowe’s courage, superior airmanship, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger were instrumental in accomplishing the hazardous mission and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.