The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Colonel (Infantry) Eugene Michael Lynch (ASN: 0-76891), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Brigade, 25th Infantry Division. Colonel Lynch distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 7 October 1968 while serving as Commander, 2d Brigade, 25th Infantry Division. A fierce battle erupted between a well trained North Vietnamese battalion and four companies of American infantrymen. Helicopter gunships provided initial fire support but after an hour of heavy contact were forced to withdraw to rearm and refuel. At this critical moment when it appeared that the enemy would gain fire superiority, Colonel Lynch ordered his command and control ship to conduct a series of low-level firing passes. Although met with heavy ground fire, Colonel Lynch, along with the door gunners, placed heavy fire on the communists inflicting casualties on them. His courageous tactic heartened the infantry troops below, enabling them to mount an assault on the North Vietnamese positions. When the advancing infantry flushed an enemy platoon into the open, he again ordered his pilot to make low-level runs and directed fire which killed twelve of the aggressors. This action was typical of the many valorous deeds performed by Colonel Lynch during twenty-eight consecutive hours I which he directed the American forces in the air and on the ground. During this time, he was responsible for the quick, lifesaving evacuation of wounded personnel, the capture of prisoners and utilization of information obtained from them, and the preparation and execution of battle plans which brought about the complete and decisive defeat of the North Vietnamese. Due to his ability to rapidly assess the changing tactical situation, to react without hesitation and to provide cogent, effective coordination between the ground troops and support elements, the enemy was dealt a fearsome blow. Colonel Lynch’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.