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 Gareth F. Gilson, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. Warrant Officer Gilson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander of a lift helicopter in support of Allied units during troop insertions. His aircraft began to receive intense automatic weapons fire and anti-aircraft fire. Immediately, Warrant Officer Gilson began evasive actions, giving his gunners directions in which to return fire and notify his flight lead of the enemy fire. Warrant Officer Gilson continued his approach into the landing zone to drop off his troops even though his aircraft was under intense enemy fire. Upon landing, he instructed his crew to suppress the nearby treeline with their machine guns to give coverage to the departing troops. Despite a heavy mortar attack, Warrant Officer Gilson continued to hold his aircraft steady until the troops had safely departed the aircraft. When given an all-clear by his crew, he then proceeded to take off using highly evasive actions to keep the aircraft clear of enemy fire and flew his ship safely back to Khe Sanh. Through his courage and sound judgment, he contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. Warrant Officer Gilson’s outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.