After 43 years, a local Vietnam vet was presented with the Distinguished Flying Cross for service as a Huey pilot in 1970 at a ceremony hosted by the UW-Stevens Point ROTC program on Thursday, Sept. 26.
Brigadier General John E. McCoy of the Wisconsin Air National Guard presented Warrant Officer One Steven C. Ellis with the Distinguished Flying Cross in front of family and UWSP cadets. Also in attendance was Portage County VA Service Officer Mike Clements who assisted in the award process.
Warrant Officer One Ellis distinguished himself through valorous conduct in a firefight against elements of the North Vietnamese Army. When he found an enemy element attempting to evade contact with the 1st Cavalry Division, Warrant Officer One Ellis immediately engaged them with machine gun fire, destroying many enemy soldiers. Despite being wounded in this exchange, he managed to maintain control of his helicopter and safely landed near the fight. The battle continued on the ground until Warrant Officer One Ellis and his crew were rescued by other Troop E pilots. Warrant Officer One Ellis’ focus on defeating the enemy, his bravery in the face of intense enemy fire and his devotion to duty while wounded are actions in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service. His actions bring great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
The United States of America
To all who shall see these presents greeting:
This is to certify that
The President of the United States of America
Authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926,Has awardedTHE DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS
to
Warrant Officer One Steven C. Ellis
1st Squadron, 9th Calvary Regiment
For heroism
While participating in aerial flight
17 October 1970
Given under my hand in the city of Washington
This 3rd of July 2013