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 Staff Sergeant Ralph T. Bemis, II, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against and opposing armed force as a C-130E Loadmaster for the 50 Tactical Airlift Squadron at An Loc, Republic of Vietnam, on 18 April 1972. On that date Sergeant Bemis flew a tactical emergency low level resupply mission of critically needed ammunition to a besieged concentration of allied forces located in a heavily defended hostile area. While delivering his cargo, Sergeant Bemis’ aircraft was so severely damaged by hostile anti-aircraft fire that a crash landing was required. During the entire operation, Sergeant Bemis performed all tasks, both normal and emergency, with professionalism and precision thereby significantly contributing to the first successful crash landing of a C-130E in a combat environment without the loss of life. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Bemis has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.