AWARDED DFC: 3
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  UH-1D/H

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross (Second Oak Leaf Cluster) to Thomas A Hall, Chief Warrant Officer W2 United States Army, 57th Medical Detachment, 58th Medical Battalion, 68th Medical Group, Untied States Army Medical Command, Vietnam, for action dated 3 May 1970. For heroism, while participating in aerial flight, evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam: Chief Warrant Officer Hall distinguished himself while piloting a helicopter ambulance during rescue operations near Binh Thuy. An element of friendly Vietnamese troops had received five casualties while engaged in heavy fighting with enemy troops. As Mister Hall approached the evacuation site for the wounded soldiers, he was informed by nearby helicopter gunships that numerous enemy elements were present and some automatic weapons fire had been experienced. Mister Hall landed his aircraft and the wounded soldiers were loaded onto the aircraft. As Mister Hall initiated take off, intense enemy automatic weapon fire engulfed the aircraft. The aircraft received several hits and soon burst into flames. Nevertheless, Mister Hall flew his helicopter out of the area at a low altitude until he was clear of the enemy fire. Mister Hall then began issuing instructions to the crew concerning emergency landing procedures. After a successful emergency landing, Mister Hall assisted in evacuating the wounded from the aircraft. He then established a defensive perimeter around the wounded soldiers until a rescue helicopter arrived. Chief Warrant Officer Hall’s outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.