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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Burnum E. Melton for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty. Major Melton distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Pilot of a transport helicopter during a perilous mission that required his aircraft to fly protective cover for another aircraft extracting friendly troops. Without gunship cover and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Major Melton skillfully maneuvered his aircraft so as to protect the troop-carrying transport helicopter from the enemy gunners. Receiving heavy automatic weapons fire from an entrenched enemy unit, he nevertheless bravely continued to engage the enemy with his aircraft weapons, thereby allowing the transport ship to successfully extract the friendly element without damage or casualties. Voluntarily continuing to engage the enemy unit, Major Melton forced their withdrawal after air dropping a large tear gas canister on their position. Through his conspicuous courage in the face of heavy enemy fire and his outstanding flying ability, he was highly instrumental in the complete success of the mission. His thoroughly professional 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.