The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Curtis H. Downs, III, United States Army, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the Republic of Vietnam on 30 October 1970. Captain Downs distinguished himself while serving as aircraft commander of a CH-47 helicopter during relief operations near Hue, Republic of Vietnam. When extremely heavy rains caused extensive flooding and left many people homeless, Captain Downs assisted to evacuation operations. Despite extremely hazardous flying conditions, he skillfully piloted his aircraft onto small and dangerous landing zones to evacuate flood victims. After the evacuation was completed, Captain Downs returned to delivery badly needed foods and supplies to the homeless people. His actions were instrumental in saving the lives of countless flood victims. Captain Downs’ outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
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Awards Received
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Distinguished Flying Cross
Citation Courtesy of the Distinguished Flying Cross Society – www.dfcsociety.orgThe 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 Curtis H. Downs, III, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam on 22 July 1970. Captain Downs distinguished himself while serving as pilot aboard a CH-47 helicopter during a resupply mission on Fire Support Base Ripcord, Republic of Vietnam. When Captain Downs approached the firebase to insert combat-essential equipment, his aircraft came under intense hostile direct and indirect fire. Subjecting himself to the hostile fire, Captain Downs piloted his aircraft to the besieged firebase to discharge his sling loads. After checking his aircraft for any serious damage, Captain Downs made numerous sorties to the besieged firebase to insert vital supplies and extract equipment to expedite the upcoming base extraction. His actions were instrumental in keeping the beleaguered ground forces well supplied with vital munitions. Captain Downs’ personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the Highest Traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.