AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  UH-1D

Citation:  1.) The Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. These men distinguished themselves while serving as aircraft commanders of troop carrying helicopters. A friendly reconnaissance team located deep within enemy controlled territory had become the target of two well planned enemy ambushes. They requested emergency extraction because they had four wounded personnel. Upon arriving in the area it was discovered that the team was exhausted and surrounded. Darkness was approaching and moving the patrol to a landing zone was out of the question. These men descended toward the team's position and maneuvered their aircraft so that the crews could lower 150 feet ropes through the hole in the triple canopy to the besieged team. After they hooked up, these men skillfully lifted them up through the thick jungle exposing themselves to intense enemy fire. Their exemplary professionalism was instrumental to the successful extraction of this reconnaissance team. Their expert flying ability was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon themselves, their units and the United States Army.