AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  CH-53

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Sergeant Charles J. Pogany, United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight while serving with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 463, Marine Aircraft Group Sixteen, First Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. From 30 January to 23 March 1971, Sergeant Pogany participated in Operation Lam Son 719 as Crew Chief aboard a CH-53 transport helicopter assigned numerous resupply, insertion, and extraction missions in support of Army of the Republic of Vietnam units whose fire support bases deep in enemy-controlled territory were under heavy pressure and intense fire from large North Vietnamese Army forces. Particularly noteworthy were his heroic action on 26 February when he launched as Crew Chief aboard the lead aircraft in a flight of four transports assigned the emergency extraction of a field artillery piece from Fire Support Base Hotel II. Undaunted by the enemy mortar rounds impacting in the extraction area, Sergeant Pogany completely disregarded his own safety as he lowered himself headfirst from the cargo release hole to attempt the pick-up without the aid of the Vietnamese ground crew which was forced to seek cover. Holding on with his legs and ignoring the fragments from the mortar rounds which struck and damaged his helicopter, he resolutely remained in his dangerous position until he accomplished the hook-up. Sergeant Pogany’s courage, superior professionalism, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.