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 Chief Warrant Officer Michael J. Friel, United States Army, for heroism in connection with aerial flight as evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Kingdom of Laos, Chief Warrant Officer Friel distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 21 March 1971, while serving as an Aviator with the 71st Assault Helicopter Company. On that date, he was providing gunship fire support for helicopters attempting emergency resupply of South Vietnamese combat forces on Landing Zone Delta. As the helicopters approached the landing zone, they came under an intense barrage of enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire. Reacting immediately, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Chief Warrant Officer Friel engaged the hostile emplacements with accurate rocket and machine gun suppressive fire. When one of the resupply helicopters was shot down, Chief Warrant Officer Friel followed in his aircraft in order to provide fire support until the crew members were rescued. During this entire operation he was exposed to a devastating barrage of enemy fire. His expert flying ability and courageous actions undoubtedly saved the lives of the crew members of the downed helicopter and were instrumental in the successful completion of the mission. Chief Warrant Officer Friel’s personal heroism, professional competence, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 23rd Infantry Division and the United States Army.