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 Major Donald G. Barbezat, United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in serial flight as an AC-130 Gunship Navigator over Laos on 8 April 1971. On that date, while on a night armed reconnaissance mission over heavily defended hostile supply routes, his actions led to the safe return of his battle damaged aircraft and a severely injured crew member. His exemplary performance insured the survival of both gunship and aircrew, after having directly assisted in the damage or destruction of (21) hostile supply vehicles, the creation of eight sustained fires, and the ignition of eight secondary explosions. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Major Barbezat reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.