Ed Freeman (July 13, 1931 – August 20, 2008) was a United States Army helicopter pilot and a recipient of the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Ia Drang in the Vietnam War.
Early life and education
Born in New York City, Freeman grew up in the Bronx. He graduated from St. Francis Preparatory School in 1949 and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Maryland in 1960. He also completed pilot training at the United States Army Aviation School.
Military career
Freeman entered the United States Army in 1954, initially serving as an infantryman before completing flight training. He became a pilot of the Bell UH‑1 Iroquois (Huey) helicopter and was assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). During the Battle of Ia Drang (November 14–18, 1965), Freeman repeatedly flew into a heavily defended landing zone to evacuate wounded soldiers, despite intense enemy fire and damage to his aircraft. His actions enabled the extraction of numerous casualties and contributed to the overall success of the operation.
Medal of Honor
For his extraordinary heroism during the Ia Drang engagement, Freeman was awarded the Medal of Honor, the United States' highest military decoration. The citation highlighted his "conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty."
Later life and death
After his Vietnam service, Freeman continued his Army career, eventually attaining the rank of major before retiring in 1979. He settled in Maryland, where he worked as a consultant for aerospace and defense firms. Freeman died on August 20, 2008, in Baltimore, Maryland, at the age of 77. He was interred at Arlington National Cemetery.
Legacy
Freeman's actions are frequently cited in military studies of helicopter warfare and medevac operations. His Medal of Honor citation is included in official Army histories of the Vietnam War, and his story has been featured in several documentaries and books about the Battle of Ia Drang. Various military facilities and awards have been named in his honor, reflecting his lasting impact on Army aviation and combat medicine.