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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Paul P. Vitale, Specialist Four, E4, United States Army, 191st Aslt Hel Co, Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 25 January 1968 for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: Specialist Four Vitale distinguished himself while serving as crew chief of a UH-1D troop carrying helicopter engaged in the extraction of an allied unit pinned down by an enemy force. On the first extraction, his ship came under enemy fire. Descending into the pick up zone, his ship became engulfed in enemy fire, sustaining several hits. After placing highly suppressive fire on the enemy positions, his ship landed in the secure area and, upon close inspection, it was determined that the ship had sustained severe damage. Volunteering to accompany his badly damaged ship back into the hostile area to extract the remaining troops, he completely expended his machine gun ammunition, and then utilized his automatic rifle. On departure from the area, one of the passengers aboard received an enemy round, severely wounding him. At great personal risk, Specialist Four Vitale left his assigned post and administered life saving first aid to the stricken man. Through his courage and personal bravery, he was truly instrumental in the successful completion of the mission, and was directly responsible for saving the life of the wounded man. 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.