During the Vietnam War, one of the most iconic images to come from the conflict was UH-1 “Huey” helicopters touching down to bring wounded troops and civilians to safety. Sadly, many of these medevac missions ended in tragedy. This is because it was incredibly difficult and dangerous to get in and out safely. However, for those who survived, they were a crucial part of why an already notoriously brutal conflict wasn’t even worse. Now, Congress is providing the Army Dustoff crews with its highest honor for their efforts.
Army Dustoff Crews From Vietnam are Receiving Congressional Gold Medal
Vietnam War medevac helicopter crews, known as “Army Dustoff Crews,” will receive the Congressional Gold Medal. This is the highest honor Congress can bestow.
The Dustoff Crews of the Vietnam War Congressional Gold Medal Act honors around 3,000 pilots, medics, and crew who flew between combat zones and field hospitals, extracting 900,000 wounded Soldiers between 1962 and 1973.
Becoming their call sign, Army Dustoff Units got their name from the dirt and debris stirred up by helicopter rotors during landings.
The Congressional Gold Medal recognizes the bravery of young soldiers. Often teenagers, they flew unarmed helicopters into combat to save lives, with overwhelming bipartisan support in both the House and Senate.
Getting into a medevac helicopter during the Vietnam War was far from safe, just safer than remaining in the harsh terrain to face even more carnage.
Those climbing aboard the helicopters had a one-in-three chance of becoming casualties themselves while flying these dangerous missions.
A notable Dustoff unit, the 54th Medical Detachment, completed over 8,600 missions during a 10-month period. They evacuated more than 21,000 casualties, earning 78 valor awards.
Major Patrick Henry Brady received the Medal of Honor for his heroism, rescuing 51 soldiers in a single day despite multiple helicopters being damaged or destroyed.
Army Dustoff crews often flew into battle without armor protection, operating under extreme danger to evacuate the wounded quickly.
How the Congressional Gold Medal Works
Since 1776, the Congressional Gold Medal has been awarded to more than 300 individuals and organizations, beginning with George Washington and extending to crews like the Army Dustoff troops today.
Several top generals and other notable groups, including the Native American Code Talkers and the Montford Point Marines, have earned the award due to their contributions on and off of the battlefield.
Each Congressional Gold Medal is uniquely designed by the U.S. Mint to honor the recipient; however, when it comes to groups, only one medal is made.
In the case of the Army Dustoff crews, the medal is being minted for display at a very fitting venue—the U.S. Army Medical Department Museum in Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
Supporting Army Dustoff Crews
Serving in any capacity takes grit, determination, and bravery. However, going into battle with the core interest of rescuing those in need remains a type of service, especially dignified.
Now, the heroes of Vietnam are getting their proper recognition. However, the legacies of Dustoff crews continue to be an evolving one deserving of preservation. This is where the DUSTOFF Association comes in.
Aiming to preserve the histories and legacies of ambulance units, it’s a place of community and support for those with experience in these roles.
The Army Dustoff units continue to save lives in unsafe, unfavorable environments while putting their own lives at considerable risk.
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