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 Captain Thomas L. Pearcy, Sr., United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Pearcy distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 26 April 1971 while serving as a Night Observation Helicopter Pilot with Headquarters and Headquarter Company, 98 Infantry Brigade. On that date, while flying security for a convoy from Tra Bong to Chu Lai, he constantly displayed outstanding flying skills and personal courage. Through his timely acts and disregard for his own personal safety he flew at very low levels, where he detected and helped destroy an enemy position. He braved an extremely hazardous situation and medically evacuated two critically wounded fellow soldiers and this action undoubtedly saved the lives of these two men. He returned in total darkness and flew over the convoy as cover for the remainder of the mission. Captain Pearcy then made a night extraction of two engineers from Observation Post George. This operation was extremely dangerous due to heavy ground fog and once again he displayed his outstanding ability as he safely extracted the two men. Captain Pearcy’s personal heroism, professional competence, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest tradition of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 23 Infantry Division, and the United States Army.