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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Frankie L. Gilbert, Chief Warrant Officer, CW2, United States Army, 17 th Assault Hel Co, Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 1 February 1968 for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: Chief Warrant Officer Gilbert distinguished himself while serving as aircraft commander of a UH-1C armed helicopter in support of an American infantry unit ambushed in an alley of Saigon. The infantry platoon leader, believing an entire squad had been killed by a claymore mine, instructed Chief Warrant Officer Gilbert to fire into the buildings on both sides of the alley. Although under heavy fire from numerous automatic weapons, he made a low close pass placing perfectly accurate fire on the enemy positions. As he fired, five of the men believed dead got up and started to run for safety. Although dust from his rockets showered them, so accurate was his fire that all five were able to escape without further harm. As they ran, he deliberately flew low over the enemy, placing himself in the position of greatest danger to draw the enemy's fire away from the infantrymen. Due to his courage and consummate flying skill, the five soldiers survived, and the infantry was able to overrun the hostile position. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.