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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Robert M. Huley for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Huley distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 21 March 1968. He immediately responded to a request to evacuate two members of a long range reconnaissance patrol who had sustained injuries in combat with an enemy force. Upon reaching the pick up site, he instructed his crew to lower the craft's rescue hoist, but high gusting winds and extremely dense jungle canopy prevented its use. In addition, the unarmed ship began receiving heavy small arms fire. Lieutenant Huley observed a bomb crater one hundred fifty meters from the patrol's position and hovered his helicopter to it in hopes that the patrol would follow, but the small force became pinned down. Realizing the wounded required immediate attention, his crew volunteered to guide the patrol to the crater, and Lieutenant Huley skillfully maneuvered his aircraft between overhanging tree branches to within a few feet of the crater floor. The crew was lowered into the crater and as the medic made his way to the patrol's position, Lieutenant Huley slowly hovered above the trees and guided his progress, ignoring heavy enemy sniper fire directed at the craft. When the patients were brought to the crater, he lowered his ship into it and with superb hovering techniques held his helicopter steady until the casualties were loaded. He then departed the area, successfully evading withering enemy fire, and delivered the two men to a hospital. First Lieutenant Huley's 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.