AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  LOH-6

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Thomas H. Habbick, First Lieutenant, Infantry, Troop F, 4th Air Cavalry, Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 14 April 1971 for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: First Lieutenant Habbick distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as pilot of a light observation helicopter in support of Allied ground units. While flying low level reconnaissance over suspected enemy positions, Lieutenant Habbick’s aircraft came under intense enemy fire. He immediately returned fire on the enemy positions and marked them for the gun-ship strikes which followed. During the contact with the enemy ground force, his observer received a serious leg wound. Lieutenant Habbick flew his crippled aircraft 40 kilometers in order to get his crew member medical attention as soon as possible. His 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.