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 First Lieutenant Herbert W. Korte, 117th Aslt Hel Co, for action dated 3 October 1968, Republic of Vietnam for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action, above and beyond the call of duty. First Lieutenant Korte distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Aircraft Commander of a UH-1C helicopter gunship and fire team leader of a light fire team in support of a Special Forces unit northwest of Tay Ninh. The friendly forces were under heavy enemy attack and urgently needed a supply of ammunition. As the fire team escorted the supply ship on its approach to the friendly positions, one gunship was hit several times by enemy fire and was forced to return to Tay Ninh. With no other gunship to cover him, Lieutenant Korte flew low and close to enemy positions to provide fire support. Each time his ordnance was completely expended, he rearmed and returned to face the fire power of an unusually well-armed and determined enemy force. His daring attacks decisively turned the tide of battle against the enemy. Lieutenant Korte had expended his ordnance five times in flying under intense enemy fire for seven hours and was responsible for a large portion of 214 enemy dead on the battlefield. 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.