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 Kenneth A. Luse, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. Warrant Officer Luse distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 29 November 1969, while serving as co-pilot with Troop B, 1st Squadron (Airmobile), 9th Cavalry in the Republic of Vietnam. When his aircraft arrived on station, Warrant Officer Luse immediately began suppressing the enemy positions with his mini-gun and grenades so that the other helicopters could insert the ground troops. While making one of his rocket runs, his aircraft came under heavy automatic weapons fire. Although wounded, Warrant Officer Luse, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, flew his aircraft back into the area in an attempt to engage the enemy position and mark it for the gunships. While making this rocket run, Warrant Officer Luse’s aircraft was again under heavy automatic weapons fire that resulted in the crash that took his life. Warrant Officer Luse’s effective marking and engagement of the enemy position enabled the gunships and Air Force jets on station to destroy the enemy positions. His outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.