Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Major (Armor)

    Regiment:

    11th Armored Cavalry Regiment

    Action Date:

    February 23, 1967

    Headquarters, 9th Infantry Division, General Order No. 1894 (June 24, 1967) & General Orders No. 3034 (July 4, 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 Major (Armor) Rodney D. Wolfe (ASN: 0-87978), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty, while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. Major Wolfe distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 23 February 1967 while serving as Aircraft Commander aboard a UH-1D helicopter that was flying a re-supply mission. During the fight, Major Wolfe was monitoring his radio when he overheard an urgent call of evacuation of five wounded men. Knowing that he was within minutes of the area, Major Wolfe immediately diverted his aircraft in the direction of the location given. Approaching the area, the helicopter was met with an incredibly heavy layer of fog that rose to an altitude of nearly 700 meters. Relying solely on his instruments, Major Wolfe made several valiant attempts to land his aircraft. Each time his visibility was completely obscured. Realizing the necessity of reaching the casualties, Major Wolfe flew to the edge of the fog bank and at tree top level, with no forward vision flew into the fog. Placing himself in an extremely vulnerable position to receive enemy fire, Major Wolfe hovered with consummate skill over the area where the wounded men lay. At length he reached the men who were loaded aboard and then daringly took off through the dense fog. Major Wolfe’s helicopter was one of only two aircraft to penetrate the fog and his daring saved the lives of several fellow soldiers. Major Wolfe’s outstanding flying ability, bravery, 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.