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 One (WO-1) Joseph W. Winder, Sr. (ASN: W-3158433), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 189th Assault Helicopter Company, 1st Aviation Brigade on 14 July 1968. Warrant Officer Winder distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Aircraft Commander on a troop carrying helicopter that was called to rescue a friendly ground unit in heavy contact with the enemy west of Dak To. He approached the landing zone under heavy enemy fire and hovered adeptly to lower ropes for the extraction of the ground personnel. Enemy concentration was so heavy that strikes by Air Force “Skyraiders” failed to decrease the concentrated fire previous to his approach. The supporting helicopter gunships then made firing passes which failed to suppress enemy fire or to cover his approach. Under heavy fire, he courageously made one successful sortie into the landing zone in support of the besieged unit. Warrant Officer Winder’s flying skill and determination prevented the surrounded unit from being annihilated. 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.