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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 Len E. Glass, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam on 19 December 1969. Captain Glass distinguished himself while serving as pilot of a UH-1H helicopter during an emergency extraction mission near Quang Tri, Republic of Vietnam. While preparing for the routine extraction of one element, Captain Glass received word that another team was in heavy contact and needed immediate evacuation. Following a narrow river valley, he flew low level under thick clouds and through driving rain to the contact area. Arriving near the team, he used a homing device to pinpoint its exact location. Despite the danger of enemy fire, Captain Glass hovered his aircraft along a ridge line, into a landing zone near the ground troops and extracted the team. Captain Glass’ outstanding flying ability and courage prevented friendly casualties and greatly contributed to the success of the mission. Captain Glass’ 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.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain

    Action Date:

    November 14, 1969
    Citation Courtesy of the Distinguished Flying Cross Society – www.dfcsociety.org

    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 Len E. Glass, United States Army, for heroism involving aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam on 14 November 1969. Captain Glass distinguished himself while serving as aircraft commander of a UH-1H helicopter during an extraction mission southwest of Hue, Republic of Vietnam. A ranger team had made contact with an enemy force of undetermined size and requested extraction. Although the pick-up zone was continually under small arms fire, Captain Glass immediately responded to the request. His helicopter began receiving enemy small arms fire while descending, but he continued to maneuver the aircraft vertically down between trees. Although Captain Glass continued to receive hostile fire in the pick-up zone and on take-off, his courageous actions and perseverance resulted in the successful completion of the mission. Captain Glass’ exceptional 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.