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 Major (Armor) Francis B. Martin (ASN: 0-95356), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty on 11 March 1967 while serving as pilot of a UH-1D helicopter flying in support of Troop B, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Troop B encountered heavy resistance from a Viet Cong force about twelve kilometers northeast of Tay Ninh. Fighting lasted all day and into the night, resulting in thirty-tree Viet Cong killed in action by confirmed body count. The armored cavalry assault vehicles and tanks had expended most of their ammunition and were critically short. In response to an urgent request for aerial resupply, Major Martin courageously agreed to fly the mission, despite the darkness and extremely hazardous conditions of the landing zone. After delivering the supplies to the rugged landing zone less than five hundred meters from where another helicopter had been shot down, Major Martin departed, circling the area to determine whether further assistance was required. Overhearing a call for emergency medical evacuation of several wounded soldiers, Major Martin volunteered to fly the mission, despite the darkness, inadequate landing zone and danger of sniper fire; the ground elements then established a landing zone on rough terrain, illuminated by the headlights of the armored cavalry assault vehicles and surrounded by dense jungle from which snipers had been firing at aircraft throughout the day. The dusty landing area required the use of instruments to land and take off. Major Martin skillfully maneuvered his helicopter into the area, remaining in his extremely vulnerable position until the injured men were placed on the aircraft and were evacuated. Major Marin’s exemplary flying ability and valiant disregard for his own safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.