AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  CH-53D

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Michael P. Hays, United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight while serving as a Pilot with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 463, Marine Aircraft Group Sixteen, First Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the morning of 1 May 1970, First Lieutenant Hays launched as Aircraft Commander aboard a CH-53 transport helicopter assigned the emergency mission of resupplying a United States Army outpost at Thuong Duc which had been under hostile rocket and mortar attacks for several days and was running dangerously low on food and ammunition. Arriving over the designated area, he maneuvered to a hover and was releasing his external cargo when enemy rounds began impacting near his aircraft. Undaunted, First Lieutenant Hays completed his delivery of the vital supplies and then lifted out of the dangerous area. Realizing the urgency of delivering more supplies to the beleaguered outpost, he resolutely elected to continue the resupply mission despite the constant threat of hostile fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, First Lieutenant Hays braved the enemy rounds impacting in the drop zone on four more flights to the outpost and skillfully maneuvered his helicopter to avoid the impact areas as he safely delivered the critical food and ammunition to the friendly unit. First Lieutenant Hays' courage, superior airmanship, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger were instrumental in accomplishing the hazardous mission and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.