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 Major (Armor) Donald L. Smart, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 16 April 1970 while serving as Troop Commander, with the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date Major Smart was flying his Command and Control Helicopter in support of the Aero Rifle Platoon while on operations near the Cambodian border. Suddenly an intense barrage of enemy ground fire struck the aircraft. Two machine gun rounds pierced the console and the cockpit was filled with smoke. Even though he had received several wounds Major Smart maintained complete control of the situation. As he searched for a suitable landing area, he called in helicopter gunships upon the enemy anti-aircraft position. As the descended Major Smart briefed the crew on crash procedures. He set the craft down without further damage to the helicopter or injury to the crew. Major Smart’s actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.