Foil: 6 Panel: Distinguished Flying Cross Society Column: 2 Line: 7

Wall of Honor Level:
Air and Space Friend

Honored by:

Awarded: The Distinguished Flying Cross
Date of service: 18 July 1970
Theater: Republic of Vietnam
Authority: By direction of the President of the United States under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved 2 July 1926.
Reason: For heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam on 18 July 1970. Warrant Officer Ban distinguished himself while serving as aircraft commander of a CH-47 cargo helicopter at Fire Support Base Ripcord, Republic of Vietnam. When a tactical emergency was declared due to a critical shortage of ammunition, Warrant Officer Ban volunteered to fly the vital munitions to the besieged firebase. Due to intense enemy fire, Warrant Officer Ban had to make his approach in complete darkness. Subjecting himself to the intense enemy barrage, Warrant Officer Ban maneuvered his aircraft onto the landing zone where the critical ammunition was successfully unloaded. Warrant Officer Ban'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.