The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Melvin T. Graves, United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement in aerial flight while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron THREE HUNDRED SIXTY-FOUR (HMM-364), Marine Aircraft Group Sixteen, First Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam in a troop lift operation in support of the Forces of the Republic of Vietnam into the heart of an insurgent communist guerrilla (Viet Cong) stronghold. The operation was conducted against an extremely well deployed and well armed anti-aircraft unit that brought the fire of many heavy automatic weapons to bear upon the incoming and departing waves of helicopters as well as laying down a destructive fire upon the landing zone. Exercising skillful judgment, iron determination and displaying outstanding aeronautical skill, First Lieutenant Graves courageously maneuvered his helicopter into a safe landing while receiving serious damage during the approach and departure and utilizing all the skill at his command in saving the aircraft for further assault waves. First Lieutenant Graves subsequently participated successfully in three additional helibourne assault landings into this very heavy fire to complete the mission which had been assigned. His courage and selfless action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.