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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to John E. Rossman, Specialist Four, Company A, 123d Aviation Battalion, 23rd Infantry Division, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Four Rossman distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 28 March 1971 while serving as a Helicopter Door Gunner with Company A, 123d Aviation Battalion. On that date, Firebase Maryann came under intense enemy mortar fire and a fullscale sapper attack which resulted in serious friendly casualties. Fully cognizant of the danger involved, Specialist Rossman volunteered to accompany a medical evacuation mission into the area. In order to compensate for the inoperative machine guns on the helicopter, he carried a large quantity of hand grenades with which to protect the mission. During the initial extraction of wounded soldiers, the helicopter came under heavy enemy ground fire from several locations. Skillfully assessing the situation, he hurled grenades at the hostile soldiers in order to suppress their fire. Despite the extreme danger, Specialist Rossman disembarked the craft and personally assisted in placing the friendly casualties aboard. During the return flights to the hospital, he continued to assist the wounded while under heavy enemy fire. Through his timely and courageous actions, he contributed greatly to the safe withdrawal of the wounded soldiers. Specialist Four Rossman's personal heroism, professional competence, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 23d Infantry Division, and the United states Army.