AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  AH-1G

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Charles S. Hamilton III, WO1, Co D (Atk Hel), 158th Avn Bn (Aslt Hel), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in Laos. Captain Hamilton distinguished himself on 8 February 1971 while serving as aircraft commander aboard an Ah-1G armed helicopter in support on Army of the Republic of Vietnam troops in Laos. During an escort mission of lift helicopters conducting an assault, Captain Hamilton continually placed accurate fire into enemy positions despite intense small arms and heavy weapons fire directed against his aircraft and the troop carrying helicopters. Returning to the landing zone after rearming and refueling, he was instrumental in locating and destroying an antiaircraft position. His courage and judgment contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. Captain Hamilton'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.

2.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Charles S. Hamilton III, CW2, Trp C, 2nd Sqdn (Ambl) 17th Cav, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in Laos: Chief Warrant Officer Hamilton distinguished himself on 7 March 1971 while serving as pilot of an AH-1G Attack Helicopter escorting UH-1H helicopters during the extractions of a downed helicopter crew and an Army of the Republic of Vietnam security force protecting them in Laos. Enroute, Chief Warrant Officer Hamilton flew his aircraft ahead of the flight in order to engage and silence several enemy antiaircraft positions. By engaging enemy positions and piloting his aircraft between the UH-1H helicopters and sources if hostile fire, he was able to protect the UH-1H until the extraction was completed. His efforts were instrumental in the success of the mission. Chief Warrant Officer Hamilton'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.