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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Paul B. Maini for heroism while participating in aerial flight. Captain Maini distinguished himself by heroic actions on 23 October 1969 while serving as an Aircraft Commander with Company B, 25th Aviation Battalion in the Republic of Vietnam. While conducting aerial support for 3d Brigade ground troops, Captain Maini's aircraft came under intense enemy .51 caliber machine gun fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, Captain Maini continued to make gun runs on the hostile emplacements while providing cover for another helicopter gunship. While making a low-level gun run on an enemy position, Captain Maini's aircraft came under intense machine gun and small arms fire causing his door gunner to be wounded and forcing his helicopter to land. Due to Captain Maini's cool, quick actions the crippled aircraft was set down in a secure area. Captain Maini's bravery and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division and the United States Army.