Distinguished himself while flying his light observation helicopter on a voluntary rescue mission behind enemy lines north of Quang Tri City, Republic of Vietnam, on 11 July 1972. Lieutenant Walker was serving as the wingman of a scout team on an emergency rescue mission when he and his team leader were engaged by extremely intense small arms, automatic weapons, 23mm and 37mm anti-aircraft fires, and heat seeking missiles. In spite of the intensity and ferocity of the hostile fire, he continued his flight, constantly returning fire for fire with deadly accuracy covering his team leader and assisting him in the search for the downed American crew. After the survivors were located in a bomb crater, he flew to their position laying down extremely accurate suppressive fire, landed and picked up three of the survivors. Although his aircraft was greatly overloaded with the additional weight, he skillfully utilized every remaining ounce of power in his straining engine and departed the area, again placing his suppressive fires on the enemy stronghold, allowing his team leader to safely depart the area. Further along the escape route his deadly accurate fires effectively silenced a 23mm anti-aircraft position. Throughout this entire mission Lieutenant Walker exposed himself to the gauntlet of fierce enemy fire with total disregard for his own personal safety. With both aircraft clear of the pickup area it soon became evident that Lieutenant Walker’s helicopter could not remain airborne due to the extreme overtaxation of the engine’s available power. Lieutenant Walker then successfully completed a potentially disastrous night landing on a narrow dusty road where the rescued survivors were transferred to another aircraft. Lieutenant Walker was responsible for the rescue of five American air crewmen and one Vietnamese marine, all of whom were severely burned or wounded, and prevented their certain capture or death at the hands of the enemy. Lieutenant Walker’s conspicuous gallantry, extraordinary heroism and intrepidity at the risk of his own life, above and beyond the call of duty, were in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of his country.

Frank currently lives in Rock Hill, SC with his wife Kathie E. Walker.