The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Clifford W. Buckingham (MCSN: 0-25350), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea while serving with a Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron on 15 October 1952. Serving as a pilot, Major Buckingham displayed exceptional courage, professional skill and devotion to duty. Despite prior knowledge that the flight would take place over mountainous terrain during the hours of darkness and under adverse weather conditions, he unhesitatingly volunteered to undertake the evacuation of three seriously wounded Marines. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he fearlessly maneuvered his aircraft toward the small landing site. The approach and landing necessitated an extremely slow speed let down through a dense haze with no radio or navigational aids available for assistance. After successfully negotiating the landing and supervising the rapid loading of the casualties onto the helicopter, he attempted the return flight. Fearlessly guiding the aircraft over the treacherous terrain, he expeditiously accomplished the evacuation. The critically injured Marines were immediately treated at the medical center. Major Buckingham’s alertness, efficient action and outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.