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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Philip P. Osterli, Captain, Transportation Corps, United States Army, 335th Assault Helicopter Company, Republic of Vietnam, for heroism while participating in aerial flight. Captain Osterli distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 22 June 1967 while piloting a gunship and directing rocket fire into the enemy area surrounding Company A, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate), which was encircled by an estimated two battalions of North Vietnamese Regulars. Captain Osterli, untiringly and without regard for his safety, continued his flights and gun runs into the area, stopping only long enough to refuel and rearm. Captain Osterli’s superb flying skills and exceptional valor in the face of heavy enemy automatic weapons fire and low cloud formations, assisted greatly in covering the troops on the ground and giving suppressive fire wherever requested. The heroic actions of Captain Osterli were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.