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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Gary L. Calhoun, Medical Service Corps United States Army, 45th Medical Company, 58th Medical Battalion, 68th Medical Group, United States Army Medical Command for heroism, while participating in aerial flight, evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam: Captain Calhoun distinguished himself while serving as aircraft commander aboard a helicopter ambulance during rescue operations near Ham Tam. Captain Calhoun and his crew were summoned to evacuate two friendly casualties from a dense jungle area. Upon arrival at the evacuation site, Captain Calhoun was informed that the area was still insecure and heavy enemy fire had downed a helicopter ambulance during a prior rescue attempt. Nevertheless, he and his crew hovered over the dense jungle vegetation while the crew chief lowered the extraction rig to the jungle floor. While the wounded were being secured to the extraction harness, the helicopter ambulance began receiving intense enemy ground fire. Ignoring the enemy fire, Captain Calhoun remained on station above the pick up area until the wounded were loaded into the helicopter and could be evacuated to nearby medical facilities. Captain Calhoun's outstanding flying ability 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.