By Direction

of the

President of the United States

the

Distinguished Service Cross

Is Awarded

to

Dennis C. Durand

 Posthumously

Rank and Unit:  Specialist Four, A CO, 227th Attack Helicopter Battalion, 1st Aviation Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division

Date and Place:  May 25, 1971, Republic of Vietnam

Reason:   For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam:

Specialist Four Dennis C. Durand distinguished himself on May 25 1971 while serving as doorgunner on an emergency medical evacuation mission near Dac To. His helicopter was embarked on a mission to rescue a seriously wounded survivor of a US helicopter which had crashed the day before. This involved braving intense enemy anti-aircraft fire since an estimated two enemy regiments completely surrounded the besieged firebase. Specialist Durand realized the enemy situation and strength, but his concern for the life of a fellow American soldier overshadowed this knowledge. It was further learned that two ARVN soldiers were also critically wounded and in dire need of medical evacuation. Specialist Durand's aircraft proceeded through the hail of enemy fire to the firebase and picked up the seriously wounded American as well as the Allied soldiers. Upon departing the firebase, his aircraft received heavy enemy fire and lost its motor before it burst into flames and crashed into the jungle. It was during this period that Specialist Durand was killed. 

Specialist Durand's personal bravery and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.