AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  AH-10

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Richard D. Hulse, 1 Lt, Btry B 4th Bn (Aerial Arty) 77th Arty (Ambl), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam on 7 December 1969. Lieutenant Hulse distinguished himself while serving as a pilot and gunner on an AH-1G helicopter supporting a heavily engaged reconnaissance team west of the A Shau Valley, Republic of Vietnam. Upon spotting the enemy location, he quickly leveled a heavy volume of rocket fire on the enemy positions. When the hostile fire was silenced, he escorted the lift aircraft into the team’s position and leveled intense protective fire while the team was being extracted. At this time, a second reconnaissance team needed assistance and, despite marginal weather conditions and a low fuel supply, he volunteered to assist in the extraction. Reaching the second team through extremely low clouds, rain, and high mountains, Lieutenant Hulse began engaging the insurgents. As the enemy fire grew heavier, he placed his aircraft between the extraction helicopter and the enemy fire in order to provide better protection. After the successful extraction, he returned through mountain passes, rain, and clouds, and finally landed with fifteen minutes of fuel remaining. Lieutenant Hulse’s personal bravery 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.