Freddie Neil Haynes

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Freddie Neil Haynes (428-98-8920), Specialist Fourth Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with 57th Aviation Company, 52d Aviation Battalion, 17th Aviation Group, 1st Aviation Brigade. Specialist Fourth Class Haynes distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 12 November 1969 while serving as doorgunner on a transport helicopter supporting the 5th Special Forces. While at the encampment at Dak Pek, the crews of four helicopters came under intense enemy mortar attack. When the initial incoming round wounded four pilots, Specialist Haynes immediately went to their assistance and helped them to seek shelter in a slight depression in the ground. As the shells continued to pound the area, Specialist Haynes ran into the open to prepare two aircraft for take-off. One of the helicopters received a direct mortar hit, and although wounded by shrapnel, Specialist Haynes approached the burning ship and extracted the injured pilot. Minutes later as he was helping the wounded pilot aboard a second craft, Specialist Haynes was fatally wounded. Specialist Fourth Class Haynes extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, US Army, Vietnam, General Orders No. 381 (February 11, 1970)