AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  C-130E

Citation:  1.) The Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a C-130E Loadmaster for the 776th Tactical Airlift Squadron at An Loc, Republic of Vietnam, on 16 April 1972. On that date, Sergeant Hillhouse flew a tactical emergency low level airdrop of critically needed ammunition to a besieged concentration of allied forces located in a heavily defended area. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, in spite of heavy anti-aircraft fire and intense automatic weapons activity, Sergeant Hillhouse performed his aircrew duties with exact precision, resulting in a completely successful airdrop only seconds after taking a 51 caliber hit in the nose section. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Hillhouse reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.