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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Warrant Officer Lynn Kazmierowski for heroism while participating in aerial flight, evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. Warrant Officer Kazmierowski distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 19 August 1969 while serving as Aircraft Commander with the 71st Aviation Company. On that date, Warrant Officer Kazmierowski was flying in support of a combat assault mission inserting troops into battle near Landing Zone Center. As the team of helicopters approached the hot landing zone, Warrant Officer Kazmierowski put down a devastating suppressive fire and then continued to cover for the sister aircraft as the ground troops were inserted. When the team of combat assault helicopters attempted to disengage, one of the ships was shot down. Realizing the danger in firing from a distance, Warrant Officer Kazmierowski attacked at an extremely low level, repeatedly exposing himself to the insurgents' automatic weapons fire at very close range. At this time the recovery aircraft's main motor blade was hit, forcing it to fly at a low altitude over the enemy. Gallantly exposing himself to enemy fire again, Warrant Officer Kazmierowski provided covering fire for his comrades until they were safely out of enemy range. Through his timely and courageous actions, Warrant Officer Kazmierowski was instrumental in the overall success of the mission. Warrant Officer Kazmierowski's personal heroism, professional competence, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, the Americal Division, and the United States Army.