The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain (Air Defense Artillery) Charles T. Daily (ASN: OF-119101), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 189th Aviation Company (Assault Helicopter), 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 14 February 1969. Captain Daily distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Aircraft Commander of a UH-1H lift ship, during a rescue mission of a reconnaissance patrol west of Dak To. Immediately upon arriving on station, he descended down over the trees and came to a hover above the area of contact. Disregarding heavy enemy fire, he lowered three ropes to the men below and remained on station until they were tied securely on. He then hovered up out of the trees and with no ground guidance, lowered the injured into a river bed a short distance away. He shielded the men from sporadic enemy fire with his own aircraft while they were helped up into the ship. Only after all were on board safely, did he start his ascent out of the enemy fire. Through his courage and sound judgment, Captain Daily was able to save the lives of three fellow soldiers. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.



