AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  CH-46

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Paul M. Nick, United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group Sixteen, First Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. Late in the evening on 10 July 1967, Captain Nick launched as Copilot in the lead aircraft of a flight of three CH-46 transport helicopters on an emergency mission to extract a ten-man reconnaissance team pinned down by intense enemy fire in a mountainous area south of Phu Gai. When it was decided prior to take off to attempt the entire extraction with a single aircraft because of the extremely dangerous conditions in the landing zone, he supervised the removal of all equipment except machine guns and ammunition to lighten his helicopter. As his aircraft arrived over the hostile area in complete darkness, Captain Nick expertly assisted the pilot in locating the small zone which was marked only by a strobe light. Realizing the difficulties involved in approaching the zone between two steep precipices under intense enemy fire, he manned the radios, monitored the instruments and kept the pilot informed of air speed, altitude and flight conditions, while simultaneously directing the fire of the armed helicopters against the enemy positions. Upon landing, Captain Nick immediately extinguished all lights on the aircraft and continued to direct fire against the enemy positions while the beleaguered Marines embarked. Despite increasingly heavy enemy fire in proximity to his aircraft, he remained calm, encouraging and assisting the Marines until they were all safely aboard the helicopter. As the heavily laden aircraft departed the landing zone Captain Nick assisted the pilot in every way possible while expertly directing suppressive fire against the enemy. His professional attitude and steadfast determination contributed significantly to the accomplishment of the extremely hazardous mission which undoubtedly saved the lives of the beleaguered Marines. Captain Nick’s exceptional aeronautical skill, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.