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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Warrant Officer Michael B. McGraw for heroism while participating in aerial flight as evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. Warrant Officer McGraw distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 24 March 1971, while serving as Pilot of an unarmed UH-1H helicopter with 71st Aviation Company, 14th Combat Aviation Battalion. On that date, his unit was involved in a rescue mission of the crew members of four helicopters that were forced to land northwest of Khe Sanh. As he approached the area, the craft came under intense enemy fire. Warrant Officer McGraw, disregarding the intense enemy fire, maneuvered his aircraft into the treacherous landing zone. He made numerous trips into the area under intense fire to extract rescue forces and crew members. Warrant Officer McGraw’s timely and courageous actions undoubtedly saved the lives of several of his fellow soldiers and served as a great inspiration to the other members of his unit. Warrant Officer McGraw’s personal heroism, professional competence and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 23d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.