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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel Stephen K. Heywood, United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Flight Leader, Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM on 20 March 2003. Lieutenant Colonel Heywood distinguished himself through superior and selfless actions while in support of 1st Marine Division. He led the planning and execution of a deep air support strike mission on enemy observation posts. Leading a flight of sixteen aircraft to the target area through instrument flight conditions, and the threat of small arms, anti-aircraft artillery, and man portable air defense fire, Lieutenant Colonel Heywood expertly utilized his aircraft's sensors to identify and destroy his assigned observation post. His ordnance delivery also provided a mark that allowed the other aircraft in his flight to deliver accurate fires in the objective area, which effectively blinded the enemy's front line units. By his superb airmanship, inspiring courage, and loyal devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions, Lieutenant Colonel Heywood reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.