Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Armor)

    Regiment:

    11th Armored Cavalry Regiment

    Action Date:

    July 21, 1967

    Headquarters, 9th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 4820 (September 20, 1967)

    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 (Armor) Galen D. Rosher (ASN: 0-5510916), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight, as evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty, while serving with the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Rosher distinguished himself by valorous actions on 21 July 1967, while serving as Aircraft Commander aboard a UH-1C helicopter during an aerial support mission covering a convoy. Observing the convoy come under withering attack from an estimated battalion of Viet Cong, Captain Rosher immediately alerted his gunships and swooped low over the enemy, delivering a devastating barrage of highly accurate fire. As Captain Rosher ascended prior to another firing pass, his aircraft received several hits. Undaunted, he fearlessly executed two more firing passes and, as he circled for a fourth pass, a hydraulic system and fuel cell ruptured. Despite the damage which had also rendered some of his weapons inoperable, Captain Rosher valiantly made another pass. This time the Viet Cong shot away much of the bottom of the aircraft, allowing fuel to gush freely. Captain Rosher immediately affected emergency procedures, regained control of the wildly gyrating aircraft, and slowly descended. He quickly ordered his gunners to set up a tight perimeter around the helicopter until a reaction force arrived to relieve the crew. Captain Rosher’s outstanding flying ability, extreme courage, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.