Distinguished Flying Cross for Vietnam Vet after 42 years

Vietnam veteran receives Distinguished Flying Cross 42 years later
Southeastsun.com
Posted: Monday, April 8, 2013
By Ariana Diaz

A local Vietnam veteran was recognized and awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his valorous actions in Vietnam, more than 40 years later.

Instrument instructor pilot Charles "Butch" Grafton was presented the medal by former company commander retired Maj. Gen. C.A. "Lou" Hennies, during a graduation ceremony at the U.S. Army Aviation Museum, April 4.

"Here today we're proving that it's never too late or too long to make a wrong right," Hennies said.

Grafton earned the medal for saving the life of a fellow service member while participating in an aerial fight in Vietnam, while assigned to the 61st Assault Helicopter Company, 7th Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, as a warrant officer 1.

On April 10, 1971, a platoon with the 173rd Airborne Brigade came under heavy fire and sustained several casualties.
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