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 Distinguished Flying Cross to Warrant Officer Gary L. Peyton for heroism while participating in aerial flight. Warrant Officer Peyton 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), 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate), which was encircled by an estimated two battalions of North Vietnamese Regulars. Warrant Officer Peyton untiringly and without regard for his safety, continued his flights and gun runs into the area, stopping only long enough to refuel and rearm. Warrant Officer Peyton's superb flying skill 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 Warrant Officer Peyton were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.