The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Henry Joseph Pfeiffer, United States Coast Guard, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight during the early morning of 24 December 1955, as pilot of a Coast Guard helicopter engaged in the rescue of men, women and children during the flood disaster at Yuba City, California. In spite of darkness, intermittent rain, and the necessity for operating dangerously close to tall trees, antennas and other hazardous obstructions in the raging flood waters, Lieutenant Pfeiffer skillfully piloted the helicopter to the assistance of persons who were marooned in positions of extreme peril on roofs, automobiles, in trees, and elsewhere. On one mission, when antenna guy wires obstructed and prevented his maneuvering to hoist a paralyzed woman, Lieutenant Pfeiffer deliberately cut the guy wires with the main rotor blades of the helicopter, blew over the antenna with downwash, and proceeded with the successful hoist and rescue.. By his indomitable courage and determination over a period of twelve consecutive hours, despite his great fatigue, Lieutenant Pfeiffer successfully rescued 72 persons and evacuated them to places of safety. His expert airmanship, dauntless valor, sound judgment and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.