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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Clifford H. Stern for heroism while participating in aerial flight as evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in the Kingdom of Laos. Captain Stern distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 8 February 1971 while serving as an Aircraft Commander with the 174th Aviation Company, 14th Combat Aviation Battalion. On that date, Captain Stern was carrying out a troop-carrying mission for the initial combat assault into Laos. He skillfully flew his aircraft across the border and into the landing zone, despite the fact that three other aircraft had already been shot down in the attempt. As he was landing, his ship came under heavy anti-aircraft and automatic weapons fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, he held his position despite the heavy fire until all of the troops were unloaded and then departed the landing zone safely, in spite of the continuing barrage. Captain Stern's aircraft returned to the landing zone an additional five times, and each time was the target of massive enemy fire. Upon completion of the troop lift, he again returned to the landing zone after having been alerted that an evacuation helicopter was desperately needed for several wounded ARVN soldiers. Ignoring the obvious dangers involved, Captain Stern utilized sound judgment and expert flying technique in his descent into the beleaguered landing zone and remained at a stable hover until all eight of the wounded men could be loaded on board. He then maneuvered his aircraft through the lethal fusillade to safety, in spite of the fact that he was loaded at maximum gross weight. Captain Stern'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 23rd Infantry Division, and the United States Army.