"...extraodinary heroism in connection with military operations against and opposing armed force in Southeast Asia as an HH-3E helicopter pilot on 2 and 3 July 1967. On the 2nd of July, Captain Etzel flew his helicopter into one of the most heavily defended areas of North Vietnam to rescue a downed F-105 pilot. Unable to effect a pickup because of oncoming darkness and intense small arms fire that damaged his aircraft, Captain Etzel withdrew from the area. After landing at a friendly base, he volunteered to continue rescue opperations the next day. After minimum rest, he took off at first light and flew through intense automatic weapon fire, dodged deadly missiles, and evaded attacking MIGs is search of the downed pilot. In the face of heavy small arms fire that severely damaged his helicopter, he located and rescued this valuable pilot..."
From "For Extraordinary Heroism The Air Force Cross" by Jeffrey B. Floyd