Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Warrant Officer (W-1)

    Regiment:

    1st Aviation Brigade

    Action Date:

    November 8, 1967

    Headquarters, 1st Aviation Brigade, General Orders No. 2917 (May 14, 1968)

    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 Warrant Officer (W-1) Ronald E. Miller (ASN: W-3154434), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 189th Assault Helicopter Company, 1st Aviation Brigade, on 8 November 1967 in the Republic of Vietnam. Warrant Officer Miller distinguished himself while performing the duty of Aircraft Commander of a utility helicopter in support of Special Forces west of Dak To, Republic of Vietnam. While placing fire on a North Vietnamese Army position, the lead ship of a supporting fire team was shot down. Learning of the position of the downed aircraft, Warrant Officer Miller immediately flew to the area. He was advised that the downed crew was receiving heavy fire and that the ridge overlooking the site was held by a determined enemy. Disregarding the danger, Warrant Officer Miller brought his ship to a hover over the site of the downed aircraft while under intense fire, directed the lowering of the McGuire rig. He ignored enemy fire for more than five minutes while the injured personnel fastened themselves to the rescue hoist. Warrant Officer Miller made a slow vertical ascent under fire and safely lifted the injured from the crash site and flew them to a safe area for transfer to the aircraft for medical evacuation. His 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.