THE WALL OF FACES

CITATION:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Captain (Armor) John Dehaas Curran, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with A/227th Assault Helicopter Company, 52d Combat Aviation Battalion, 1st Aviation Brigade. Captain Curran distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 25 May 1971 while serving as co-pilot on an emergency medical evacuation mission near Dac To. His helicopter was embarked on a mission to rescue a seriously wounded survivor of a U.S. helicopter which had crashed the day before. This involved braving intense enemy anti-aircraft fire since an estimated two enemy regiments surrounded the besieged firebase. Captain Curran 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. Captain Curran's aircraft proceeded through the hail of fire to the firebase and picked up the seriously wounded American as well as the allied soldiers. Upon departing the firebase, his helicopter received heavy enemy fire and lost its motor before it burst into flames and crashed. Captain Curran's personal bravery and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
See https://valor.militarytimes.com/hero/5349

Captain John Dehaas Curran was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Valor, with Combat Distinguishing Device (V), for his exemplary gallantry in action. He was also awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Merit for his sustained meritorious service. He served as a Rotary Wing Aviation Unit Commander and was assigned to A/227TH AHB, 52ND AVN BN, 17TH AVN GROUP, 1ST AVIATION BDE.
See http://www.coffeltdatabase.org/detreq2.php

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. May you rest in eternal peace.

Captain John Dehaas Curran, Served with Company A, 227th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 52nd Aviation Battalion, 17th Aviation Group, 1st Aviation Brigade, United States Army Vietnam.

Thank you for your service and sacrifice.