The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Antisubmarine Warfare Technician Second Class Paul D. DeGennaro, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while serving in Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Two Detachment, embarked in U.S.S. KITTY HAWK (CVA 63). Flying as a crewman in SH-3A Rotary Wing Aircraft during a mission in support of combat operations in Southeast Asia against North Vietnamese forces on 22 and 23 May 1967. Petty Officer DeGennaro participated in the attempted rescue of the pilot of an F-4C downed by enemy action over North Vietnam. Demonstrating exceptional skill and utilizing his training to full advantage while remaining calm under heavy fire, Petty Officer DeGennaro, from an unarmored section of the helicopter assisted the pilot in his hover. He further assisted in operating the damaged rescue hoist by hanging over the side of the aircraft and guiding the sling toward the survivor. Petty Officer DeGennaro gave up his rescue only when ordered to do so following an aircraft emergency forcing immediate departure. Once away from the immediate area of fire, Petty Officer DeGennaro, using his knowledge of first aid, and wounded by small arms fire himself, assisted his more seriously injured comrade. By daring action, exceptional skill and loyal devotion to duty, Petty Officer DeGennaro upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.