06/02/2026
At the Home of Army Aviation, we are saddened to learn of the passing of an Army Aviation legend, retired Lt. Col. Bruce Crandall. The master Army aviator in both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft led more than 900 combat missions during two tours in Vietnam. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions on November 14, 1965, flying his UH-1 Huey helicopter into intense enemy fire repeatedly, to deliver critical ammunition and evacuate wounded Soldiers. His 22 flights through relentless enemy fire saved countless lives and became one of the most outstanding acts of courage in Army aviation history.
During his career, Crandall was honored with many awards and decorations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross with one oak leaf cluster; the Bronze Star Medal; the Meritorious Service Medal; the Air Medal (24 awards); the Army Commendation Medal; the Purple Heart; the National Defense Service Medal with one oak leaf cluster; the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; the Vietnam Service Medal (four campaigns); the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 device; a Presidential Unit Citation; a Meritorious Unit Citation; the Master Army Aviator Badge; the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Gold Star (three awards) and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal.
Retired Col. John D. Herren, who commanded Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, said: “These helicopter crews were our lifeline, as they brought battalion units into the LZ. They evacuated our wounded and brought in water and ammunition, despite intense enemy fire. I was an eyewitness to one of Crandall's flights. I was pinned down by intense enemy machine-gun and rifle fire that killed my radio operator and severely wounded the Co. D. commander, Capt. Ray Lefebvre. Crandall's helicopter landed and evacuated Lefebvre and others. The act of bravery was extraordinary and inspirational.”
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family. May he rest in peace.
U.S. Army Aviation
