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 James M. Kiekenapp, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. Warrant Officer Kiekenapp distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander of an unarmed helicopter. A small long range patrol was surrounded by a numerically superior enemy force, and the situation appeared hopeless unless an immediate extraction was performed. Warrant Officer Kiekenapp skillfully maneuvered his aircraft to the small clearing selected for the landing zone, and while maneuvering the aircraft down through treacherously close trees, the aircraft came under intense small arms and anti-aircraft fire. Despite intense enemy fire, he would not leave the landing zone until he was sure all members of the team had boarded his aircraft. As a direct result of his superior flying skill and courage under fire, the extraction was completed successfully. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.