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 Captain Harry W. Hagan, Jr., United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Rescue Crew Co-pilot of an HH-3E helicopter in Southeast Asia on 24 April 1968. On that date, Captain Hagen was instrumental in the rescue of a United States Army pilot shot down over the extremely hostile A Shau Valley area. Despite rapidly deteriorating weather conditions and intense opposing fire, Captain Hagen descended into the hostile area and effected the rescue of the downed pilot. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Hagen reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.