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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Warrant Officer Joseph D. Ashworth, Warrant Officer, WO1, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. Warrant Officer Ashworth distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 14 July 1969, while serving as a pilot with Troop C, 1st Squadron (Airmobile), 9th Cavalry during a night rescue mission in Binh Dong Province, Republic of Vietnam. When a helicopter had been dispatched carrying a rescue team, to repel near the flaming wreckage of a downed aircraft, Warrant Officer Ashworth, volunteered to escort this helicopter to the crash site and cover the night repel with his aircraft. Though ammunition in the burning aircraft was exploding, filling the air with shrapnel, he fearlessly piloted his aircraft throughout the treacherous terrain. Skimming the treetops, Warrant Officer Ashworth brought the aircraft to a hover over known enemy positions, and bunkers. With complete disregard for his own safety, he covered the repel flying through the heavy shrapnel and darkness of known enemy terrain, in valiant efforts to assist his comrades on the ground. Warrant Officer Ashworth’s outstanding flying ability coupled with sound judgement and personal bravery, drove the enemy from the wreckage and contributed immeasurably to the successful completion of the mission. His outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.