AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  CH-53C

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Paul C. Mathews for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Aircraft Commander of a CH-53C helicopter in Southeast Asia on 16 November 1972. On that date, Major Mathews flew in a formation of six helicopters assigned to move a large contingent of allied soldiers into a besieged town deep in hostile territory. Despite the constant threat of anti-aircraft and small arms fire, Major Mathews executed a high speed, low level tactical approach into the beleaguered town to insert the crucial reinforcements. Major Mathews' flying skill and determination contributed directly to the failure of the hostile offensive in a critical allied area. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Mathews reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.