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

Citation:  1.) The Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam on 24 November 1970. Chief Warrant Officer Caffrey distinguished himself while serving as aircraft commander aboard a UH-1H helicopter during an emergency extraction mission in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam. When an embattled reconnaissance team requested an emergency extraction, Chief Warrant Officer Caffrey piloted his aircraft to the contact area to attempt the rescue. Immediately upon the departure of the first aircraft from the embattled pick-up zone, Chief Warrant Officer Caffrey made an approach into the area. Although encountering heavy enemy fire, he continued the approach. Once in a hover over the landing zone, Chief Warrant Officer Caffrey's aircraft began receiving direct hits. He held his position in an effort to extract the team members, until the aircraft became uncontrollable and crashed. Chief Warrant Officer Caffrey's personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.