My dad
Taken from the actual award document (July 3, 1967)
JOHN A. VARGAS SP4 E4
US51582456
Awarded: THE DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS FOR VALOR IN AERIAL FLIGHT
For heroism while participating in aerial flight, Specialist Four John A. Vargas distinguished himself by heroic action on 19 May 1967, in the Republic of Vietnam. SPCIALIST VARGAS was serving as a door gunner on the lead aircraft of two armed helicopters performing a screening mission for a ground force in the HO BO Woods. while on a low level reconnaissance, the lead gunship came under intense ground fire and sustained multiple hits. SPECIALIST VARGAS was seriously wounded in the right arm and shoulder. Although painfully wounded SPECIALIST VARGAS REGAINED HIS GUNNER'S seat and marked the enemy position with a smoke grande. Despite his wounds he assumed his position and continued to aggressively engage the enemy. SPECIALIST VARGAS continued firing from his post until he collapsed. Due to his devotion to duty and his outstanding personal bravery, the aircraft was able to escape the enemy fire, while another gunship was able to attack the enemy position which he had marked with smoke. SPECIALIST VARGAS' heroic actions are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division and the US Army. A