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 Owen M. Ritchie, Warrant Officer, WO1, United States Army, Company A, 227th Aviation Battalion (Assault Helicopter) (Airmobile) for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. Warrant Officer Ritchie distinguished himself by valorous actions on 15 March 1970, while serving as aircraft commander in the Republic of Vietnam. When his aircraft received intense ground-to-air fire as it approached the landing zone, Warrant Officer Ritchie immediately had his crew mark the enemy positions and then called in air strikes on the aggressors. Although the lead helicopter was shot down, he courageously continued the mission of bringing reinforcement troops despite the heavy barrage of fire directed at his aircraft. His outstanding flying ability 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.