AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  OH-6

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Michael D. O'Byrne for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. Captain O'Byrne distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Pilot of a light observation helicopter. During an Air Cavalry scout mission, Captain O'Byrne's aircraft came under enemy fire, was hit and Captain O'Byrne was wounded. In spite of the injury, Captain O'Byrne maintained control of his aircraft and flew it out of the hostile area. Keeping the aircraft in a straight and level altitude, Captain O'Byrne directed his Gunner to climb from the gunner's compartment to the Co-pilot's seat and proceeded to give him instructions on how to fly the aircraft in the event he could no longer control the aircraft himself. Captain O'Byrne elected to set the aircraft down after he felt he could no longer safely control it for the entire flight to the airstrip. Captain O'Byrne's 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.