The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Charles L. Gant, Jr., United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight. First Lieutenant Gant distinguished himself by heroic actions on 7 April 1970, while serving as a aircraft commander with Company B, 25th Aviation Battalion, 25th Infantry Division on 7 May 1970, in the Republic of Cambodia. On the date cited above, an element of Company B was dispatched to give air support to a friendly unit that had made contact with a large enemy force. Immediately upon arrival, Lieutenant Gant initiated air strikes on the enemy positions. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Gant exposed himself to a hail of enemy fire as he made numerous low level passes in placing rocket fire on the aggressors. The friendly element was thus able to maneuver effectively against the hostile element. His valorous actions contributed immeasurable to the success of the mission. The bravery, aggressiveness, and devotion duty exhibited by Lieutenant Gant are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

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 First Lieutenant Charles L. Gant, Jr., United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight. First Lieutenant Gant distinguished himself by heroic actions on 7 April 1970, while serving as a pilot with Company B, 25th Aviation Battalion, 25th Infantry Division in the Republic of Vietnam. While on a visual reconnaissance mission, Lieutenant Gant and members of his fire team arrived in an area where members of the 3d Battalion, 22nd Infantry had come in contact with a large enemy force. During the initial contact, the element had become virtually immobilized by heavy automatic, small arms, and rocket propelled grenade fire. Immediately upon his arrival in the contact area, Lieutenant Gant’s aircraft began receiving heavy enemy fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Gant made several low level passes over the enemy positions and dropped smoke grenades on strategic points. The accuracy and effectiveness of the smoke screening enabled the ground troops to regroup into covered positions and recover casualties and sensitive equipment. His valorous actions contributed immeasurable to the success of the mission. Lieutenant Gant’s bravery, aggressiveness, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.