Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Lance Corporal

    Batallion:

    Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 164 (HMM-164)

    Division:

    1st Marine Aircraft Wing

    Action Date:

    August 21, 1968

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal Norman Ivan Hutchins (MCSN: 2267716), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-FOUR (HMM-164), Marine Aircraft Group Sixteen, FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with military operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 21 August 1968, Lance Corporal Hutchins launched as Crew Chief aboard the lead aircraft in a flight of two CH-46 transport helicopters assigned to extract a reconnaissance team which had engaged a North Vietnamese Army force and captured several enemy documents. Arriving over the designated area, he prepared for a hoist extractions as the proposed landing zone was small and surrounded by a high jungle canopy. Despite his aircraft coming under intense hostile automatic weapons fire, Lance Corporal Hutchins utilized the helicopter’s hoist to embark numerous Marines until a depleted fuel state precluded further rescue attempts. Returning to the hazardous area after refueling at An Hoa, he was operating the hoist when he was wounded by enemy fire, which also rendered the hoist inoperable. Completely disregarding his injury, he remained at his position and attempted to repair the damaged equipment until all efforts proved futile and the pilot departed the area, enabling his wingman to extract the remaining Marines. By his courage, resolute determination and unwavering devotion to duty at great personal risk, Lance Corporal Hutchins inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.