Just six days after Debbee Maraglio-Lynn was born, her father, Richard C. Maraglio courgeously answered the call above and beyond the call of duty in Vietnam. These actions would would result in him earning the Distinguished Flying Cross.
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Warrant Officer One (WO-1) Richard C. Maraglio (ASN: W-3161151), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty on 13 November 1968 while serving as a helicopter pilot with 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date in the vicinity of An Loc, elements of the 1st Squadron became suddenly engaged with a large enemy force. When ammunition had to be resupplied to the embattled troops, Warrant Officer Maraglio completed four resupply missions under extremely adverse and dangerous conditions. Each time upon approaching the extremely narrow landing zone, his aircraft came under intense automatic weapons fire. However, he immediately directed his door gunners to fire on the enemy and began taking evasive action. As the aircraft started to descend he realized that since his aircraft was overloaded and the landing zone was narrow, it would be impossible to climb out again. He, along with the pilot, skillfully affected a controlled crash landing to deliver the ammunition on four separate missions. Warrant Officer Maraglio’s courage and professional ability contributed greatly to the successful resupplying of the friendly force. Warrant Officer Maraglio’s unwavering devotion to duty, personal bravery and expert flying ability were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
We at Veteran Rites call Debbee Dr. Deb, an accomplished Navy Veteran and organizational leader who is on the path of becoming a VR Rite of Return Guide and skillfully facilitates spaces of healing that serve the whole veteran in body, mind, spirit, and soul. She carries on the the courage, skill, and humility of Richard (who is currently battling cancer) through her own voice, wisdom, experience, and compassion to relieve suffering and empower veterans to live fully and serve again.
I want to honor the Veterans close to my heart: My grandmother, Peggy, a WWII Army Veteran; my Grandfather, a WWII Army Veteran; my Mother, Dottie, an Army Vietnam Veteran; my father, Richard, an Army Vietnam Veteran; my brothers, Frank and Perry USAF Veterans. To all my family members who have served and have not mentioned. To my partner/spouse, a retired Public Health Service Veteran, my dear veteran friends, new and old... Thank you for your continued camaraderie and service to your families and communities. I send much love and deep gratitude to you all. - Dr. Deb
Dr. Deb with Donny Reed facilitating Frequency Meditations at the 2024 Veteran Rites Winter Incorporation Gathering. You can read Deb’s full bio on the VR Leadership Page.
