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.