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 Major James K. King, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an AC-130 gunship aircraft Commander in Laos on 28 March 1970. On that date, while on a night armed reconnaissance mission, his actions led to the damage or destruction of 11 hostile supply vehicles and the ignition of 9 secondary fires and 12 secondary explosions. Putting aside his concern for personal safety in the face of 436 rounds of hostile anti-aircraft fire, he succeeded in destroying large amounts of supplies and munitions destined for use against friendly forces. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Major King reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.