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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Fred D. McKellar, Captain, Medical services Corps, United States Army, Headquarters Support Company, 15 th Medical Battalion, for extraordinary heroism and gallantry while participating in aerial flight. Captain McKellar distinguished himself by heroism in action on 19 June 1967, while serving as aircraft commander of a medical evacuation helicopter during an evacuation mission in support of a combat operation near Bong Son, Republic of Vietnam. Upon receiving a request for evacuation of seriously wounded personnel, Captain McKellar's aircraft was dispatched to the area to make the pick-up. As the aircraft was about to land, it received intense automatic weapons fire, wounding Captain McKellar, the pilot, and the crew chief. Although severely wounded, Captain McKellar attempted to fly the aircraft out of the area, however, the pilot had to take physical control of the helicopter as Captain McKellar's upper arm was shattered and bleeding profusely. Despite being in danger of going into severe shock, Captain McKellar directed the treatment of the severely wounded crew chief and also directed the pilot in the flying of the aircraft. Although the aircraft had received over 30 hits, Captain McKellar's actions and timely advice aided the pilot in returning to a safe landing. Captain McKellar's display of personal bravery and devotion to duty is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.