Page 77 - DFCS NEWS MAGAZINE 2020-1

DAVID P. GOALEN
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Staff Sergeant David P. Goalen for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Loadmaster at Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand from 16 August, 1968 to 30 July, 1969. During this period Sergeant Goalen flew extremely hazardous missions through adverse weather conditions and through the constant threat of hostile ground fire and attack. In spite of this, he superbly accomplished these highly intricate and hazardous missions in support of free world forces combating aggression. Through his personal bravery and energetic application of his knowledge and skill, he
significantly furthered the goal of the United States in Southeast Asia. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Goalen reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
EDWARD JOHN HUNNEYMAN
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Edward John Hunneyman, United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight while serving as a Pilot with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 362, Marine Aircraft Group Thirty-six, First Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 22 May,1967, Captain Hunneyman launched as Aircraft Commander of a UH-34D helicopter assigned to the emergency medical evacuation of eight wounded Republic of Korea Marines. Arriving over the pickup area, he observed
that the landing zone was extremely small and surrounded on three sides by tall trees, requiring a difficult downwind landing. The proximity of friendly troops in the area precluded gunship fire support, however, disregarding his own safety, Captain Hunneyman skillfully maneuvered the aircraft into the confined zone. While the casualties were embarking, the aircraft came under intense enemy fire. Displaying incredible presence of mind and courage, Captain Hunneyman remained on the ground until all the wounded were aboard. Due to the high trees, which surrounded the zone, it was necessary to lift from the area directly into the source of the hostile fire. As he applied power to lift out of the fire-swept area, Captain Hunneyman realized that the throttle was malfunctioning, which prevented the helicopter from gaining the required airspeed for a normal takeoff. Demonstrating exceptional airmanship, he bounced the heavily laden aircraft to gainairspeedandsuccessfullyliftedfromthehazardouszone. Whenthehelicopterreachedanaltitudeof200feet,enemy ground fire damaged the electrical system which immediately started an electrical fire in the aircraft, rendering the radio and flight instruments inoperable. Despite the threat of an explosion and although he was unable to use his navigational aids, Captain Hunneyman, exhibiting calm
presence of mind and exceptional professional skill, successfully maneuvered the damaged aircraft to a secure landing zone. Upon landing, he directed the transfer of the casualties to another aircraft, ensuring the expeditious evacuation of the injured to a nearby medical facility. His superior aeronautical ability and determination inspired all who served with him and undoubtedly saved numerous lives. Captain Hunneyman’s steadfast courage, professional skill and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
SUMMER 2020 / DFCS News Magazine / 77