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 First Lieutenant Charles D. Cochard, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an F-4C Pilot over the Republic of Vietnam on 9 June 1966. On that date, Lieutenant Cochard led a flight of F-4Cs into the face of hostile fire in defense of beleaguered American ground troops. Despite adverse weather, treacherous mountains and intense hostile fire, Lieutenant Cochard delivered napalm and hundreds of rounds of cannon fire in a death dealing blow to the hostile forces. His actions were instrumental in saving many American lives. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Cochard reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.