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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Richard T. Scrugham, WO1, United States Army, 100 B Co, C (Aslt Hel), 156th Avn Bn (Ambl), 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 Scrugham distinguished himself on 24 October 1970 while serving as flight leader of a UH-1H utility helicopter during an emergency extraction in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam. When a long range reconnaissance team came in contact with an estimated company size enemy force, Warrant Officer Scrugham volunteered to attempt the extraction. Unable to land because of the thick vegetation, Warrant Officer Scrugham held his aircraft in a steady hover over the beleaguered unit while a jungle penetrator was lowered and the team was extracted. The entire operation was conducted under intense enemy antiaircraft fire. When one of the helicopters was forced to make an emergency landing, Warrant Officer Scrugham flew a second sortie through the intense enemy fire and extracted the downed crew. Although his aircraft received numerous hits, Warrant Officer Scrugham continued the operation until it was successfully completed. Warrant Officer Scrugham’s outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.