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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Douglas C. Lovelace, 1 LT, United States Army, Co D (Atk Hel), 101st Avn Bn (Aslt Hel) (Ambl) for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in Laos. First Lieutenant Lovelace distinguished himself on 8 February 1971 while serving as pilot of an AH-1G attack helicopter escorting UH-1H helicopters in support of Army of the Republic of Vietnam troops conducting an aerial assault in Laos. Enroute to the landing zone, Lieutenant Lovelace maneuvered his aircraft between suspected enemy positions and placed devastating and accurate suppressive fire on known enemy emplacements. When the landing zone began to receive hostile mortar fire, he located and destroyed several enemy mortar positions, despite intense enemy antiaircraft fire. Lieutenant Lovelace made numerous similar sorties to the landing zone, receiving enemy fire each time. His efforts were instrumental in the overall success of the mission. First Lieutenant Lovelace’s outstanding flying ability 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.