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 Chief Warrant Officer Thomas K. Equels, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. This man distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as pilot/gunner of a cobra gunship providing close fire support for allied forces at any outpost which was being overrun by enemy ground troops. During this operation, they located and assisted in the destruction of abandoned equipment on the outpost. The flight was then advised that the city Tiau Phuce was receiving fire from the nearby mountains. While searching for the firing positions, two enemy tanks and supporting troops were located. When tactical air support was unavailable, due to weather conditions, the flight attacked and destroyed the tanks. Making numerous runs on the tanks, they provided suppressive fire on the enemy troops near the tanks preventing them returning accurate fire on the aircraft. Their 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.
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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 a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Chief Warrant Officer Thomas K. Equels, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty by exceptionally valorous actions as co-pilot of a gunship during a visual reconnaissance of the Camp Carroll area under hazardous weather conditions. Camp Carroll was under attack from the south and southwest and Warrant Officer Equels provided accurate information to his aircraft commander enabling then to cover the utility ship as it flew directly between the fire base and the enemy positions. Upon receiving fire, he made several sweeps with his turret thus providing cover for his aircraft and the utility ship. His aircraft took several hits in the fuselage and canopy area. In the midst of all of this confusion, he remained calm and provided suppressive fire against the hostile enemy force. While demonstrating heroism and keen flying skill, he aided significantly in averting a near tragedy. Warrant Officer Equels actions were very professional and his skillful flying abilities are in keeping with the highest traditions of military standards and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the Untied States Army.