Page 58 - DFCS NEWS MAGAZINE 2018-2
P. 58

James E. Stein (Cont’d.)
#3 The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross (2nd Oak Leaf Cluster) to James E. Stein, Captain, H Trp, 17th Air Cav (WFAPAA A), United States Army, Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 5 May 1972 for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: Captain Stein distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as scout lead of an observation helicopter. A friendly unit with tanks and troops had been forced back by a large bunkered enemy unit. Captain Stein volunteered to pin point the enemy unit for tactical air and
artillery. He piloted his aircraft into the area at tree top level, fully aware of the large enemy build up. A large bunker was sighted containing the enemy. Captain Stein turned the aircraft back directly above the bunker marking it with smoke for the overhead gunships. The gunships fired and did not achieve the required direct hit to destroy the large bunker. Captain Stein, observing his previous marking smoke had dissipated again, hovered back into the area at tree top level to remark. Intense anti-aircraft machine gun fire now filled
the air encompassing his aircraft with fire and tracers and ripping holes through its frame. Despite this intense fire which had crippled his aircraft, he skillfully repositioned the it, enabling his crew member to remark and take the bunker under fire. Captain Stein then maneuvered the battered aircraft toward an open area where he safely landed, enabling the rescue aircraft room to land for medical evacuation of the wounded observer. Captain Stein’s outstanding flying ability, 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.
#4 ) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross (3rd Oak Leaf Cluster) to James E. Stein, Captain, H Trp, 17th Air Cav (WFAPAA), United States Army, Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 19 June 1972 for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: Captain Stein distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a pilot in a light observation helicopter. During an air cavalry operation northeast of Kontum, Captain Stein was asked to scout an enemy bunker complex which was the suspected location of at least one artillery battery.
After being informed that aircraft scouting the same area the day before had curtailed the mission due to small arms, automatic weapons, and large caliber antiaircraft fire, Captain Stein still volunteered to enter the area. Captain Stein skillfully maneuvered his helicopter into position to observe the area when the helicopter came under heavy fire, wounding both Captain Stein and his observer. While making a mayday call, Captain Stein directed his aircraft toward the nearest safe landing zone two kilometers away. The
severity of his wounds prevented him from operating the pedals of his aircraft. Undaunted by the odds stacked against him and operating under great physical duress due to extreme pain and loss of blood, Captain Stein directed his crippled craft to the minute landing zone, instructing his observer on the use of the pedals. Immediately after touchdown he passed out as a result of his wounds, but not before he landed the aircraft without further damage, saving the lives of himself and the observer. His outstanding flying 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.
WINTER 2018 / DFCS News Magazine / 59



























































































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