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 Chief Warrant Officer James E. Pyne for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action, above and beyond the call of duty. Chief Warrant Officer Pyne distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while flying as Aircraft Commander of a UH-1B armed helicopter in support for friendly Infantry during an assault operation. An Infantry company was inserted and immediately came under intense enemy automatic weapons fire. Chief Warrant Officer Pyne made several low gun runs to cover the troop carriers and ground troops and wrought havoc with the enemy. As the friendly troops advanced, he made low passes to divert enemy fire to his ship. These daring maneuvers revealed enemy positions and enabled the ground troops to place effective fire on them. When a large enemy force was discovered moving toward the ground unit's new night location, Chief Warrant Officer Pyne immediately took it under fire with devastating results. Throughout the firing passes on this large force, his ship received numerous hits and was under intense enemy fire. Chief Warrant Officer Pyne's bold tactics and professional skill contributed immeasurably to the killing of 68 enemy, the capture of eight weapons and the taking of two prisoners. His 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.