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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Roland B. Jarvis, Captain, Infantry, United States Army, 155th Aviation Company (Assault Helicopter), Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 6 May 1970 for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: Captain Jarvis distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander of a transport helicopter on an assault mission west of Plei Djerang. While inserting troops into a landing zone, his aircraft came under intense enemy automatic weapons fire. Calmly, he gave his crew instructions as where to put suppressive fire, and skillfully brought his aircraft out of the area without damage, and without injury to his crew. Moments later, he received the word that the lead aircraft had been shot down in a very hostile area. Immediately, and without hesitation, he volunteered to go in and pick up the downed crew. Skillfully, he maneuvered his aircraft through the enemy fire and into the pick up zone. Once the crew of the downed helicopter were aboard the recovery helicopter, he again maneuvered his aircraft through the enemy fire and out of the area without damage to the aircraft or injury to the personnel. Through his courage and sound judgment, he contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.