AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  CH-47A

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Robert T. Brafford for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty. Major Brafford distinguished himself by valorous actions while acting as Aircraft Commander of a CH-47A helicopter involved in combat support of an artillery battalion located at Trang Bang. While on short final for the landing zone, his aircraft came under a heavy barrage of automatic weapons fire, resulting in the injury of the Pilot and Flight Engineer. Major Brafford immediately took control of the aircraft and executed evasive maneuvers to speed the two wounded men back to Cu Chi for medical treatment. A complete inspection of damage revealed the utility hydraulics system to be totally inoperative. Despite this complete loss of pressure, he skillfully maneuvered the large CH-47A onto the confined med-evac pad with the aft landing gear hooked over the edge of the helipad. This ingenious method of landing the crippled helicopter enabled the wounded crew to leave the ship safely. Major Brafford's courage and flying ability prevented an extremely serious situation from becoming a tragedy. 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.

2.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Robert T. Bradford for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty. Major Brafford distinguished himself while serving as Aircraft Commander of a CH-47A helicopter engaged in an emergency night resupply of ammunition to a ground unit in contact with an estimated enemy battalion. Friendly artillery was being directed to the area of the landing zone from three directions and, due to the enemy situation, a check fire could not be called. He skillfully maneuvered his ship through the friendly fire and successfully delivered his load of badly needed ammunition, despite excessive dust in the area which eliminated all visibility. He then departed, only to return with two further sorties which were made under the same hazardous conditions. Through his courage and professional judgment, the much needed ammunition was supplied to the combat elements on the ground, enabling them to route the enemy and accomplish their mission. 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.