AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  SH-3A

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Antisubmarine Warfare Technician Second Class John David Waddell, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as an aircrewman of a helicopter, attached to and serving with Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron FOUR, during a rescue mission on 2 May 1966. While participating in the rescue of a downed airman over North Vietnam territory, he courageously and with unselfish disregard for his own personal safety placed the sling in the hands of the downed airman who was hiding from the intense enemy ground fire. Upon discovering that the hoist was jammed and the cable frayed, Waddell, with the assistance of the other aircrewman, rigged a hook and chain on the cable and fastened the other end to a gun mount in the aircraft. While their aircraft was taking hits from enemy fire both crewmen then held the cable with their hands to keep it from fraying and breaking further. In the face of intense enemy ground fire and with several rounds hitting the helicopter, Waddell, calmly and materially assisted in saving the life or capture by the enemy of a fellow airman. His courage and selfless action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.