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 C. Rowland, First Lieutenant, Infantry, United States Army, Headquarters & Headquarters Company, 227th Aviation Battalion (Assault Helicopter) for extraordinary heroism and gallantry while participating in aerial flight. First Lieutenant Rowland distinguished himself by heroism in action on 12 February 1967, while serving as a leader of a flight of four lift helicopters during combat operations near Bong Son, Republic of Vietnam. While making an approach into a landing zone, Lieutenant Rowland’s aircraft became the target of intense enemy ground fire. Disregarding his own safety, he immediately directed his flight to engage the hostile positions. When several other aircraft were downed by enemy fire during the engagement, Lieutenant Rowland, exposing himself to the intense ground fire, volunteered to remain in the area and provide security for the downed helicopters. His actions resulted in the successful recovery of the damaged aircraft and the safe extraction of the downed crewmembers. Lieutenant Rowland’s display of personal bravery and devotion to duty is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.