BOISE, Idaho — Edward Freeman, a former Army helicopter pilot awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroics during the Vietnam War and portrayed in the Mel Gibson movie “We Were Soldiers,” has died. He was 80.

Doug Freeman said his father died Wednesday in Boise from health complications due to Parkinson’s Disease after spending several weeks undergoing treatment.

The Mississippi native braved intense enemy fire in the Ia Drang Valley as he carried out rescue missions on Nov. 14, 1965, during what was considered one of the fiercest battles of the Vietnam War.

After an Army battalion was surrounded by enemy forces, Freeman flew his unarmed helicopter through enemy fire to evacuate 30 seriously wounded soldiers and bring them to safety. He also delivered water, ammunition and supplies.

Actor Mark McCracken portrayed Freeman in the 2002 film.

Freeman was 73 years old when President Bush awarded him the Congressional Medal of Honor at a White House ceremony in 2001.

http://www.militarytimes.com/news/2008/08/ap_freeman_moh_082008/

Sorry to hear the sad news. A very Great and Dedicated Warrior. One good thing, someone had the enough BRAINS to award him the CMH when he was still alive and able to receive the HONOR in person.

May God recieve him into his Kingdom.