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

Citation:  1.) The Distinguished Flying Cross 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 Springer distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 20 February 1967 while serving as commander of a transport helicopter during the infiltration of Vietnamese troops into a combat area near Bu Dop. As the flight of transports approached their landing zone, an outburst of Viet Cong fire hit the helicopter ahead of Warrant Officer Springer, forcing it to crash land in the trees below. He immediately directed the operations to free two men who were trapped under the wreckage. He instructed the ground personnel to attach a makeshift sling to his cargo hook, then gently raised the fuselage so that the trapped men could be freed and readied for evacuation. Warrant Officer Springer directed the men to remove all valuable equipment from the downed helicopter, landed and loaded the crewmembers and equipment aboard and flew out of the hazardous area. Warrant Officer Springer'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.