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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Chief Warrant Officer Richard G. Burns for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty. Chief Warrant Officer Burns distinguished himself by valorous actions near My Tho, Republic of Vietnam. Although the road from the city of My Tho to the Ben Duch Airstrip was unsecure, Warrant Officer Burns volunteered to make the trip. He drove to the airstrip in an armored car and managed to get to the field after his vehicle was hit by an enemy rocket. Once there, he lifted off under heavy ground fire. Throughout the day and into the night he provided the only aerial observation available to the city of My Tho. He adjusted artillery fire and on numerous occasions engaged targets with his own armament. His aircraft was constantly under heavy ground fire resulting in several hits. He continued to cover the besieged city leaving only to return to his unsecure airfield for fuel and armament. 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.