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 Arthur E. Koshak, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an Aircraft Commander aboard an HC-130P aircraft over hostile territory in Southeast Asia on 23 March 1971. On that date, Major Koshak coordinated and directed the efforts of six rescue aircraft and eight strike aircraft in the immediate vicinity of two downed pilots. His superior resourcefulness and positive command and control of the resources engaged in this difficult combat aircrew recovery effort led to the successful rescue of the two pilots from certain capture and possible death at the hands of hostile forces. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Major Koshak reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.