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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Donald A. Dalrymple for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as a Pilot with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 463, Marine Aircraft Group Sixteen, First Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 22 February 1968, Major Dalrymple led a nine-man aircraft recovery team to repair and recover two battle-damaged CH-53 transport helicopters downed at Khe Sanh. Displaying exceptional technical skill and resourcefulness, he effectively coordinated and supervised the repair of the disabled aircraft while repeatedly exposing himself to the heavy volume of hostile rocket, mortar, and artillery fire during the four hours required to accomplish the repairs. Employing a rapid hover check to ensure the airborne capability of the first helicopter, he skillfully flew the aircraft out of the hazardous area to Quang Tri. Although informed that two squadron pilots had been mortally wounded and their aircraft severely damaged, as a result of enemy fire directed against the Khe Sanh Combat Base, he unhesitatingly volunteered to recover the second repaired helicopter. Quickly returning to Khe Sanh, Major Dalrymple learned that hostile fire had further damaged the aircraft he was to recover. Undaunted by continuing intense enemy fire, deteriorating weather conditions and impending darkness, Major Dalrymple accepted a medical evacuation mission and steadfastly remained at the fire-swept base to embark nine Marine casualties. Unable to inspect the damaged airframe prior to liftoff due to the intensity of the hostile fire, he ably utilized a fast hover check and rapidly lifted out of the hazardous area. Although several of the aircraft's instruments and a portion of the navigational system malfunctioned, he skillfully navigated over the mountainous terrain to the medical facility at Dong Ha where he discharged his passengers and then continued on to Quang Tri. Major Dalrymple's courage, superior airmanship and steadfast devotion to duty at great personal risk were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.