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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Warrant Officer Larry K. Martin for heroism while participating in aerial flight as evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. Warrant Officer Martin distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 14 September 1967 in the Republic of Vietnam while serving as Aircraft Commander of a UH-1D helicopter on a flare drop mission. His aircraft, along with a fire team of gunships, was rushed during the early morning hours to the location of a Long-Range Reconnaissance Patrol that was under attack by an enemy force of unknown size. Despite poor visibility and low cloud cover, Warrant Officer Martin provided illumination so effectively that the gunships were able to pinpoint the patrol’s position and place effective fire on the enemy. Upon expending his load of flares, Warrant Officer Martin returned to base, reloaded, and was back providing illumination in a short time. When a second flare ship relieved him, Warrant Officer Martin volunteered to extract the four-man patrol, now in danger of being overrun. Despite the hazards created by inadequate landing space, weather, and enemy forces, he skillfully maneuvered his aircraft into the small and treacherous landing zone. Moments later, he piloted his loaded aircraft out of the area. Warrant Officer Martin’s flying skill and concern for his fellow soldier, resulted in the saving of four Americal soldiers. His outstanding heroism and devotion to duty were keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Americal Division, and the United States Army.