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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Madison Harvey Freeman, Aviation Machinist's Mate (J) Second Class, United States Navy for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 29 April 1971. Petty Officer Freeman was serving as a door gunner on a helicopter gunship of Helicopter Attack (Light) Squadron THREE which had been partially stripped of its armament to assist with the insertion and extraction of a team of United States and South Vietnamese SEAL's. After the successful insertion and subsequent operation, Petty Officer Freeman's helicopter and an unarmed Sealord utility helicopter were approaching one of the two designated landing zones when they suddenly came under extraordinarily intense machine gun fire. The initial barrage of fire critically wounded the copilot of the Sealord and a crewman on one of the two gunships providing overhead cover. His gunship broke off its approach and executed a brilliant but dangerous low level attack maneuver, surprising the enemy long enough for the Sealord to escape the kill zone. With complete disregard for his safety, Petty Officer Freeman assisted in pinpointing the enemy positions while he exchanged fire with the enemy gunners, often at point-blank range. Later, in total darkness, with his helicopter handicapped by a seriously low fuel and ammunition state, he again courageously battled the entrenched enemy during the successful rescue extraction of the encircled SEALS's. Petty Officer Freeman's devotion to duty, courage under fire and exemplary professionalism were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.