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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to James O. Morton, Major, Artillery, United States Army, 176th Avn Co, Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 15 May 1967, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: Major Morton distinguished himself while conducting a command and control mission in the vicinity of Duc Pho, Republic of Vietnam. After receiving word that a ground reconnaissance patrol had encountered a force of enemy troops, he immediately proceeded to their location to coordinate a planned reinforcement. After planning the approach and departure routes, he landed within fifty feet of the embattled paratroopers by hovering behind the crest of the ridge, in order to confer with the ground commander. After all of the plans were completed, he led the flight of reinforcements to the landing zone. Once again he landed on the ridge to evacuate the dead and wounded troops. While enroute to his home base after completing this mission, he monitored a request for a medical evacuation aircraft. Accepting the mission, he braved hazards of terrain, enemy fire, and low visibility, and was successful in extracting not only the friendly wounded soldiers, but also several hostile prisoners and weapons. Through his courage and personal bravery, he was truly instrumental in the successful completion of the urgent missions set before him. His 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.