Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Chief Warrant Officer

    Action Date:

    May 9, 1970

    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 Chief Warrant Officer Ronald L. Weigeshoff, 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 9 May 1970. Chief Warrant Officer Weigeshoff distinguished himself while serving as aircraft commander of a CH-47 helicopter during a recovery operation in Thua Thien Province, Republic of Vietnam. A helicopter had been downed by enemy fire, and Chief Warrant Officer Weigeshoff was inserted at the craft site to attempt a recovery. After making repairs, he decided that the helicopter was capable of flight. Upon departing the landing zone, the aircraft came under enemy fire and burst into flames. Chief Warrant Officer Weigeshoff maintained control of the helicopter despite flames which had penetrated the cockpit. When the aircraft crashed on a river bank it broke in two and Chief Warrant Officer Weigeshoff’s section was completely submerged. After extricating himself and the pilot from the wreckage, he assisted the crew to safety. Chief Warrant Officer Weigeshoff’s 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.