Foil: 6 Panel: Distinguished Flying Cross Society Column: 2 Line: 24

Wall of Honor Level:
Air and Space Friend

Honored by:

Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross, 17 May 1969, Republic of Vietnam, General Orders Number 5209.

192nd Aviation Company (Assault Helicopter), APO 96317

For heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: These men distinguished themselves by exceptionally valorous actions while serving aboard a helicopter gunship during a tactical emergency near Muong Man. A reconnaissance element had become engaged with a numerically superior enemy force, and had been divided into two small elements. Visibility was greatly reduced by darkness, ground fog, and smoke, and unable to establish radio communication with both ground units, they flew their aircraft at greatly reduced airspeed.

They also flew below the normal operating altitude so that visual contact could be made. Time and time again, they circled the area in order to find the friendly forces, despite the fact that they were completely exposed to enemy ground fire. One of the units, consisting of three personnel, was spotted and the command and control aircraft was notified of their position. The gun team provided coverage for the aircraft, which landed and evacuated the isolated personnel.

Later, the remaining personnel were located but all attempts to establish radio communications failed. The gun team made repeated suppressive firing runs onto suspected enemy positions, completely disregarding sporadic enemy fire and the highly dangerous conditions presented by low level, reduced visibility, night flying. With the establishment of communications, lift aircraft were able to land and evacuate the remaining personnel.

As a direct result of their actions, all reconnaissance team members, including eleven wounded, were located and evacuated under adverse conditions, with no further losses-or casualties. Through, their courage and sound judgment, they contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. Their actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon themselves, their actions, and the United States Army.