The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Fourth Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Fifth Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Colonel Michael P. Cooper, United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an F-4D Aircraft Commander over hostile territory on 8 May 1972. On that date Colonel Cooper participated in a flight of four F-4D Tactical Fighters on a mission to provide allied aircraft that were striking targets deep in the heart of hostile territory with protection from enemy interceptors. Disregarding his own personal safety, Colonel Cooper aggressively engaged a superior number of hostile aircraft and greatly aided the flight leader who destroyed one of the enemy interceptors. The remaining hostile aircraft then broke off their attack, allowing the friendly aircraft to strike the hostile targets without opposition. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Cooper reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.