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 award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to John T. Martin, Warrant Officer WO1, 335th Aviation Company (Assault Helicopter), for action dated 15 January 1971 in the Republic of Vietnam for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: Warrant Officer Martin distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander of a gunship supporting combat assaults near Can Tho. Shortly after the first insertion, the ground troops were hit by heavy enemy fire and suffered considerable casualties. An Allied rescue attempt was halted by intense enemy fire. When he saw the situation, Warrant Office Martin at once began attacking the tree lines with rocket and minigun fire. Warrant Officer Martin repeatedly exposed himself to the enemy to draw the fire away from the Allied forces on the ground. Although he took numerous hits, Warrant Officer Martin continued to provide constant, expertly placed fire into the enemy positions to suppress their attack on the ground troops. When a medevac arrived, Warrant Officer Martin laid down such a fierce barrage of fire power that the ship was able to successfully evacuate the wounded. Warrant Officer Martin's actions resulted in several Allied lives saved and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.