Navy Federal Credit Union

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 (Field Artillery) Jerald G. Lindsey (ASN: 0-5421769), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty. First Lieutenant Lindsey distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as an aircraft commander and fire team leader aboard a UH-1C armed helicopter during an emergency search and rescue mission southwest of Dak To. During the previous day’s extraction of a long range reconnaissance patrol, one team member became separated and lost. Flying through treacherous monsoon weather, he arrived in the area and flew low level in search of the missing man. Almost immediately his aircraft began receiving a heavy volume of hostile small arms and automatic weapons fire, and the team member was spotted. First Lieutenant Lindsey professionally coordinated the hazardous extraction, flying directly over the enemy locations to divert hostile fire away from the rescue aircraft. As a result, the extraction was successfully completed with no damage to the rescue aircraft. Through his courage and sound judgment, Lieutenant Lindsey contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. 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.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Field Artillery)

    Regiment:

    1st Aviation Brigade

    Action Date:

    September 13, 1968

    Headquarters, 1st Aviation Brigade, General Orders No. 1371 (March 25, 1969)

    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 (Field Artillery) Jerald G. Lindsey (ASN: 0-5421769), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 189th Assault Helicopter Company, 11th Aviation Brigade, on 13 September 1968 in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Lindsey distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while piloting a helicopter in an attempt to extract a short range patrol, which was heavily engaged with an enemy force. Gunships had swept the area in an effort to suppress the enemy fire. As Captain Lindsey approached the extraction point, his aircraft began receiving intense small arms fire from the enemy positions immediately below him. Undaunted, and with an incredible display of courage and skill, he continued his low, slow approach to the patrol’s position. He landed in an exposed open field, still under fire which was now reinforced by enemy grenades. When the patrol was safely aboard, he calmly lifted out of the area and departed to secure medical attention for the wounded. 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.