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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Warrant Officer 1 Samuel E. Mitchell, Jr., for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in support of an element of combat troops of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam in Laos. Warrant Officer Mitchell distinguished himself on 15 March 1971 while serving as Aircraft Commander of an AH-1G armed helicopter during combat operations in Laos. When an element of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam came in contact with a numerically superior enemy force and requested aerial artillery support, Warrant Officer Mitchell piloted his aircraft to the area despite adverse weather conditions. Upon entering the contact area, Warrant Officer Mitchell's aircraft came under intense ground fire. Subjecting himself to the intense barrage, he delivered accurate and devastating suppressive fire which halted the enemy assault. After refueling, he returned to the area to engage the enemy positions. His aircraft received numerous damaging hits which destroyed his controls and hydraulic system. Despite the arduous circumstances, Warrant Officer Mitchell executed a successful landing, and he and his Co-Pilot were safely extracted from the area. Warrant Officer Mitchell's outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.