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 Warrant Officer One Kenneth D. Rhoades for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 4 October 1967. On that date, during Operation Shenandoah II, Warrant Officer Rhoades was serving as Aircraft Commander of his squadron’s command and control helicopter. The aircraft was being used by the Squadron Commander to direct a search and destroy mission northwest of Lai Khe. While in the field, the Squadron Commander received word that his reconnaissance platoon and an infantry company had engaged a large Viet Cong force. Several friendly soldiers, including the battalion surgeon, had been wounded and needed immediate medical attention. Warrant Officer Rhoades immediately volunteered to fly medical aid men and supplies into the area. As he approached the battle site, he maneuvered his way through the heavy barrage of artillery fire being directed at the insurgent positions, while simultaneously evaluating the tactical situation. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he descended through a hail of enemy fire into a treacherously narrow landing zone. Ignoring the continuous automatic weapons fire directed at his aircraft, he hovered inches above the ground while the supplies were unloaded, and a seriously wounded soldier was placed aboard. After ensuring that the patient was securely and comfortably placed in the aircraft, he maneuvered the heavily overloaded ship carefully out of the area and immediately flew to the nearest medical aid station. After refueling his helicopter, he returned to the battle site to give any possible assistance. His courage, determination and superb flying skill undoubtedly saved many lives. Warrant Officer Rhoades’ actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.