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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Chief Warrant Officer Dennis L. Peterson for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action, above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. Chief Warrant Officer Peterson distinguished himself on 24 December 1971 while serving as Aircraft Commander of an AH-1G armed helicopter during a reconnaissance support mission near the Laotian border in the Republic of Vietnam. When diverted to relieve two light fire teams protecting a small reconnaissance team in heavy contact with a North Vietnamese Army Company, Chief Warrant Officer Peterson immediately engaged the enemy, driving them away from the beleaguered team. Repeatedly, with complete disregard for his personal safety, he made accurate gun runs on the retreating enemy under intense hostile fire. Repulsing the final enemy assault, Chief Warrant Officer Peterson then made a low-level pass over the contact area to assure the reconnaissance team's safety. He remained even then until a relief team was brought in for the weary ground team. Chief Warrant Officer Peterson's outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.