2nd Lieutenant Michael E. Stephan

Company C

159th Aviation Battalion

(Aslt Spt Hel) (Ambl)

For extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the Republic of Vietnam on 30 and 31 October 1970. Lt. Stephan distinguished himself while serving as aircraft commander of a CH-47 helicopter during relief operations near Da Nang, Republic of Vietnam. When extremely heavy rains caused flooding and left many people homeless, Lt. Stephan assisted in evacuation operations. Despite extremely hazardous flying conditions, Lt. Stephan skillfully piloted his aircraft and, at one point, set the entire aircraft into water to save several stranded people. After operations near Da Nang were completed, he flew his aircraft to Hieu Duc where he rescued nearly two hundred more flood victims. After the completion of the evacuation, Lt. Stephan returned to the battered area to deliver vital food and supplies to the homeless. Lt. Stephan’s outstanding flying ability 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.