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 Robert Earl Aycock (AFSN: FV-3035426), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an A-1 Skyraider Pilot in Southeast Asia on 27 January 1968. On that date, Major Aycock led a rescue force that saved the life of an American pilot who had abandoned his aircraft over hostile territory. Despite the threat of intense and accurate ground fire from the numerous hostile units known to be in the area, Major Aycock led the rescue helicopter through an expeditious pickup and, catching the hostile forces by surprise, significantly reduced the risk to the rescue force. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Aycock has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.