The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lance Corporal Larry M. Neuman, United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron THREE HUNDRED SIXTY-FOUR (HMM-364), Marine Aircraft Group Sixteen, First Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 15 May 1969, Lance Corporal Neuman launched as Crew Chief aboard a CH-46 transport helicopter assigned the mission of medically evacuating several seriously wounded Marines from an area northwest of An Hoa. Arriving over the designated location, he learned that the vastly outnumbered unit on the ground was surrounded by North Vietnamese Army soldiers, some as close as thirty meters to the Marine positions. When the aircraft commander nevertheless elected to complete the mission, Lance Corporal Neuman fearlessly leaned from the open hatch and, with complete disregard for the enemy rounds directed at the aircraft, ably provided the pilot with directive commentary which assisted him to avoid obstacles while landing in the confined zone. As soon as the ramp was lowered, Lance Corporal Neuman boldly left the helicopter and, seemingly ignoring the mortar rounds impacting around him, helped carry the casualties aboard. On one occasion, he was momentarily stunned by the concussion of an impacting mortar round, but recovered quickly and resolutely continued his selfless task. Upon lifting off, the aircraft was subjected to increased automatic weapons fire from all sides, but Lance Corporal Neuman, displaying exceptional composure, again leaned from the hatch to provide the pilot with guidance and pinpoint targets for the aerial gunners, while simultaneously delivering suppressive fire with his rifle. His heroic and determined actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of eight fellow Marines. Lance Corporal Neuman’s courage, bold initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.