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 Major Cecil O. Carlile, Company B, 1st Aviation Battalion for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight on 11 February 1967, in the Republic of Vietnam. On that date, Major Carlile was serving as Aircraft Commander in support of infantry units in numerous operations against the Viet Cong. He continuously flew over Viet Cong infested territory at dangerously low levels to pinpoint the locations of insurgent strongholds. On one occasion, while conducting an aerial photographic reconnaissance mission, his aircraft became subjected to devastating insurgent fire. Despite the concentrated enemy fire, Major Carlile was never deterred from completing his mission. He skillfully employed evasive maneuvers to counteract intense insurgent fire. Without regard for his personal safety, he exposed himself to enemy fire while making continuous low-level passes over enemy emplacements to obtain vital intelligence information pertaining to Viet Cong activity. His findings were of pivotal import in the subsequent employment of artillery fire and air strikes. As a result of his bold and decisive actions, the combat effectiveness of the Viet Cong force was greatly reduced and, thus, the American force was able to score another victory. Major Carlile’s actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.