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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross (Air Force Award) to Lieutenant Richard V. Butchka, United States Coast Guard, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an HH-3E helicopter aircraft commander attached to the 37th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron, U.S. Air Force, in action near DaNang, republic of Vietnam, on 7 January 1970. On that date, Lieutenant Butchka flew his helicopter to the scene of an aircraft crash site in the South China Sea to rescue a United Sates Air Force pilot. Despite extremely heavy swells and gusty winds, Lieutenant Butchka landed his helicopter only feet from the survivor, and maintained a stable position until the survivor was safely aboard. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Butchka reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    37th Aerospace Rescue & Recovery Squadron (Attached)

    Action Date:

    October 24, 1969

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” (Air Force Award) to Lieutenant Richard V. Butchka, United States Coast Guard, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as aircraft Commander of an HH-3E helicopter, attached to the 37th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron, United States Air Force, in Southeast Asia on 24 October 1969. On that date, in the face of known hostile forces, who had just shot down another rescue helicopter, Lieutenant Butchka, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, skillfully and expeditiously effected the rescue of three crewmen from the downed helicopter. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Butchka reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.