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 Warrant Officer C. Hugh Johnson, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: Warrant Officer Johnson distinguished himself by valorous actions on 17 February 1968, while serving as air-craft commander of a UH-1B armed helicopter in support of a ground element of Marines during a clearing mission on the west wall of the Hue Citadel, Republic of Vietnam. The Marine element became pinned down by a numerically superior enemy unit. The enemy machine gun and B-40 rocket fire was so intense that three Marines lay wounded and unattended only a few meters from their unit. In spite the intense enemy fire, Warrant Officer Johnson displayed exceptional professionalism and skill in firing 2.75 inch rockets into enemy positions in close proximity to the friendly forces, while simultaneously maneuvering his aircraft to direct maximum fire power on the enemy positions. Due to Warrant Officer Johnson’s courage and flying skill, the three wounded Marines were evacuated to safety. His 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.