Page 83 - DFCS NEWS MAGAZINE 2020-1

ALAN JAMES BILLINGS
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant (junior grade) Alan James Billings, United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in support of a U.S. Navy SEAL unit on 11 October 1968. With one aircraft of his two-plane light helicopter fire team in a down status, Lieutenant (junior grade) Billings launched his single ship into the moonless, overcast night to aid a SEAL Unit that was pinneddownbyheavyenemyautomaticweaponsfire. Onceinthearea,helocatedthefriendlyposition by radio and a blinking red light and
commenced his attack on three houses from which the SEALS were receiving fire. After two passes with rockets and machine guns, all three houses were destroyed. However, both the SEALS and the gunship then came under heavy fire from a nearby wood line. Again, Lieutenant (junior grade) Billings’s precision attacks silenced the enemy. He continued the heavy suppressive fire long enough for a “Slick” helicopter to arrive on scene and evacuate the SEAL Unit. Lieutenant (junior grade) Billings’s selfless devotion to duty, courage under fire and outstanding professionalism were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
ALEXANDER UNDERWOOD
The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Staff Sergeant Alexander Underwood for extraordinary achievement as an Aircrew Flight Engineer in connection with military air operations in Southeast Asia on 29 June, 1966. On that date, while participating in an extremely hazardous combat mission, Sergeant Underwood, by his outstanding display of professionalism and courage in the face of hostile fire from unfriendly forces, was highly instrumental in the overall success of the air operation. The results of his highly commendable efforts provided a major contribution to the tactical air mission in Southeast Asia. The professional competence,
aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Underwood reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
BERNARD A. PARR
The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Bernard A. Parr, Chief Warrant Officer, CW2, United States Army, 162nd Aslt Hel Co, Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 12-13 March, 1968 for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: Chief Warrant Officer Parr distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as an
aircraft maintenance technician. The compound at Phuoc Vinh came under
a deadly enemy rocket and mortar attack, leaving only six troop carrying helicopters mission ready. Despite poor weather, low ceilings, and a traffic pattern limited by friendly artillery fire, Chief Warrant Officer Parr proceeded to repair and test fly the aircraft. On five separate occasions enemy mortar rounds impacted dangerously close to his aircraft. Due to his superb performance, the 162nd assault Helicopter Company, which his unit supported, was able to carry out it’s assigned mission. His actions were in keeping with the highest military traditions and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
SUMMER 2020 / DFCS News Magazine / 83