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 James W. Raible, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 27 January 1960. As the pilot of an H-19 Helicopter of the 25th Aviation Company (Infantry Division), engaged in the rescue of a soldier stricken while on a field problem in a heavily wooded and mountainous area in the vicinity of Peacock Flats, Oahu, Hawaii, Lieutenant Raible voluntarily piloted the aircraft under extreme weather conditions in an effort to locate and evacuate the critically ailing victim, despite the existing dangerous conditions of complete darkness severely restricted visibility due to heavy rain, and strong gusty winds, his skilled flying techniques, outstanding military proficiency and meticulous attention to duty throughout this dangerous rescue mission resulted in the timely transportation of the soldier to a hospital several hours earlier than would have been possible by other means. His tenacity of purpose and heroic efforts, particularly in the face of limited landing space, challenging flight conditions and the intense urgency of the mission involved were conspicuously manifested. Lieutenant Raible’s exemplary achievements under extreme hazardous conditions are in keeping with the most cherished traditions of the United States Army, and reflect distinct credit upon himself and the military service.