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 D. Roach, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight while serving as Aircraft Commander of a UH-1H helicopter performing a resupply mission in support of Operation Prairie Fire near Hue, Republic of Vietnam. The lead supply helicopter received hostile fire and was shot down in mountainous jungle terrain. Warrant Officer Roach, with complete disregard for his own safety, maneuvered his ship into the area to rescue the crew. The downed helicopter rested in jungle terrain so dense that he could not land his ship on the ground, so he was forced to hover above the jungle canopy while a McGuire rig was lowered to the downed crew. At this time, his aircraft came under small arms fire and, even though unable to return the fire due to the position of the friendly forces, he continued the rescue attempt. After the rescued crew had boarded his aircraft, he performed a skillful take-off as the area came under mortar fire. During the rescue, the weather had deteriorated to such an extent that a radio controlled flight could only be maintained by staying at tree top level. However, he elected to fly at a high level rather than risk the dangers of hostile fire and low-level flight in the mountains. After climbing to six thousand feet, he terminated the successful mission with a ground-controlled approach. Due to his professionalism and courage, the lives of three airmen were saved. Warrant Officer Roach’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.