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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Chief Warrant Officer Francisco A. Miranda for heroism while participating in aerial flight as evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty on 10 April 1971. These men distinguished themselves by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as pilots of gunships which were part of a light fire team covering an urgent medical evacuation of Allied soldiers from a night defensive position. These men maneuvered their ship to cover their wing ship. Caught in the enemy’s intense automatic weapons fire, they instantly attacked the enemy positions with such a volume of fire that the enemy was forced to redirect their fire from their wing ship. These men relentlessly continued to attack the enemy positions which enabled their team to break contact with the enemy and continue its mission. Their quick thinking, outstanding courage and devotion to duty has contributed immensely to the fire team’s mission. Their actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon themselves, their unit, and the United States Army.