AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  AH-1G

Citation:  1.) No Additional Info

2.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross (First Oak Leaf Cluster) to James E. Mason III, Captain, Field Artillery, United Sates Army, 114th Aviation Company (Assault Helicopter) for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: Captain Mason distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as the aircraft commander of a helicopter gunship in support of friendly ground forces near Chi Lang. As he arrived over the area, his aircraft became the target of intense enemy automatic weapons and anti-aircraft fire from numerous positions. With contact established with the ground forces, target attacks were initiated on the enemy. Each pass was met with enemy fire so intense that his aircraft was hit numerous times in the fuel cell. Losing vast quantities of fuel, Captain Mason, rather than seek a secure airfield, continued the brave enemy fire and placed his rockets on the enemy with devastating accuracy. Pass after pass was made on the advancing enemy until still more hits in his aircraft made prolonged flight impossible. Reluctantly, he was forced to break station in search of a secure area. Finding a secure rice paddy, he landed his riddled aircraft and immediately assured that no further damage had resulted. Due to Captain Mason's highly skilled and superior flying ability, coupled with his daring courage and bravery, the ground forces were able to take the offensive and mount a counter attack that resulted in the over running of the enemy. 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.