The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” to Captain Michael P. Cooper, United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an F-105 Pilot over the Republic of Vietnam on 5 October 1965. On that date, Captain Cooper participated in a mission to destroy a vital bridge complex deep within hostile territory. Penetrating perimeter defenses on a low level high speed run, Captain Cooper courageously braved heavy anti-aircraft fire and surface-to-air missiles detonating at low level to skillfully execute a weapons approach and achieved pin-point bombing which figured prominently in the total destruction of the assigned target. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Cooper reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.