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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States is greatly pleased to present Chief Warrant Officer Jackson L. Klingbeil the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. Chief Warrant Officer Klingbeil distinguished himself on 10 September 1966 when he took part in an emergency mission in support of two battalions of the 1st Infantry Division, near Phouc Vinh, Republic of Vietnam. Serving as aircraft commander of UH-1D helicopter, he delivered reinforcements and supplies, and extracted wounded troops on several lifts under friendly artillery fire, close air strikes, and hostile mortar attacks. There was only one avenue of approach into the area which was surrounded by high trees and covered by smaller rees and shrubs. Each time he made an approach into the area he received heavy enemy automatic weapons fire. Once while he was in the landing zone enemy mortar rounds began landing in the area. Remaining calm, he maneuvered his aircraft out of the area undamaged. His courage in the face of enemy fire was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United Statea Army.