HEADQUARTERS

                       1ST AVIATION BRIGADE

                       APO  San  Francisco  96384

AWARD OF THE DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS

The following AWARD is announced.

Date action: 17 February 1968

Theater:   Republic of Vietnam

Reason:  For heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by

voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty:  Warrant Officer

Jonson distinguished himself by valorous actions while serving as air-

craft commander of a UH-1B armed helicopter in support of a ground

element of Marines during a clearing mission on the west wall of the

Hue Citadel.  The Marine element became pinned down by a

numerically superior enemy unit.  The enemy machine gun and B-40

rocket fire was so intense that three Marines lay wounded and

unattended only a few meters from their unit.  In spite the intense enemy

fire, Warrant Officer Jonson displayed exceptional professionalism and

skill in firing 2.75 inch rockets into enemy positions in close proximity

to the friendly forces, while simultaneously  maneuvering his aircraft

to direct maximum fire power on the enemy positions.  Due to Warrant

Officer Jonson's courage and flying skill, the three wounded Marines

were evacuated to safety.  His actions were in keeping with the

highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon

himself, his unit, and the United States Army.