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 Warrant Officer Daniel L. Gibson, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty Warrant Officer Gibson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as lead for a gunship team flying near the city of Phan Thiet. Upon learning that a friendly unit was engaged by a NVA Battalion, he courageously directed his own ship and another down to tree top level, and succeeded in bringing immediate relief to several elements that were pinned down in an open rice paddy. Sustaining numerous hits, he completely ignored the intense fire, and repeatedly made low level passes over the raging contact area, delivering a devastating volume of ordnance on the enemy’s emplacements. The highly professional and skillful manner in which he responded to all requests of the ground commanders was directly responsible for the saving of numerous US casualties and the infliction of devastating casualties on the numerically superior enemy force. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflected great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army For heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty Warrant Officer Gibson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while flying an armed helicopter, assisting members of a friendly regiment that had been ambushed by an estimated battalion of enemy near Phan Thiet. His aircraft was constantly under intense enemy ground fire and received numerous hits. He displayed outstanding flying ability, aggressiveness against the numerically superior enemy force, and a strong desire to accomplish his mission. His ability to recognize new developments and to make the necessary corrections, helped to minimize the severity of the attack and sound judgment, his contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflected great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.