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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Donald Vernell Aamodt (AFSN: 0-3038804), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 20th Helicopter Squadron near Duc Lap, Republic of Vietnam, on 24 December 1967. On that date, Captain Aamodt flew his UH-1F helicopter to aid in the rescue of a six man Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol that was surrounded and on the verge of being overrun by a hostile force. Captain Aamodt descended into a dense jungle area and hovered for some time, despite intense automatic weapons fire, while the patrol boarded his helicopter for a safe escape. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Aamodt has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Captain

    Batallion:

    20th Helicopter Squadron

    Division:

    Nha Trang Air Base, Vietnam

    Action Date:

    August 11, 1967
    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special Orders No. G-2554 (August 19, 1968)

    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 Donald Vernell Aamodt (AFSN: 0-3038804), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a UH-1F Helicopter Pilot near Dak To, Republic of Vietnam on 11 August 1967. On that date, Captain Aamodt, by superior airmanship, effected the rescue of a long range reconnaissance team that was being pursued by a large hostile force. This outstanding and extremely difficult feat was accomplished in marginal weather and in a landing zone so small that the helicopter had to descend vertically over one hundred feet. Despite the possibility of an ambush from the known hostile forces in the area, Captain Aamodt lingered for precious seconds in a hover while the exhausted team was pulled on board the aircraft by his two crew chiefs. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Aamodt reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.