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 Chief Warrant Officer Rodger L. Tunnell, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. These men distinguished themselves by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as pilots of armed helicopters in Chuong Thien Province. They engaged a numerically superior force of enemy troops while flying armed aerial escort for a flight of troop life helicopters. They placed accurate and devastating minigun fire on numerous enemy bunkers attempting to root the enemy soldiers from their emplacements. Although their ships received extensive damage from the murderous enemy fire, with complete disregard for their own safety, they continued to suppress the enemy while placing their ships between the intense enemy fire and the troop lift helicopters. Their outstanding flying ability and undaunted courage contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. Their actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon themselves, their unit, and the United States Army.