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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Specialist Five Frans VanderBroek for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty. Specialist Five VanderBroek distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Crew Chief on a UH-1D smoke ship southwest of Saigon. During an insertion of friendly infantry, Specialist VanderBroek's aircraft was called upon to lay a smoke screen four times between the enemy's positions. On each pass, Specialist VanderBroek withheld his fire, as directed. Heavy enemy fire tore through the aircraft and narrowly missed the heads of both pilots. After a trip back to the staging area to rearm and refuel, the smoke ship returned for a second insertion and the Co-pilot was killed instantly. Specialist Vanderbroek held the fatally wounded Co-pilot free from the controls while the Aircraft Commander completed the smoke run. The aircraft then flew to Bien Hoa to pick up a new Co-pilot. Specialist VanderBroek willingly volunteered to return to battle with his aircraft and continued to perform courageously throughout the operation. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.