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 Captain (Armor) Lloyd H. Smith, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the Troop B, 7th Armored Squadron, 17th Air Cavalry Regiment, 1st Aviation Brigade, in action against the enemy on 22 May 1969 in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Smith distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Pilot-Gunner of an AH-1G helicopter near Song Mao. An allied armored company was in contact with a battalion-size Viet Cong force, and a UH-1C gunship had been shot down by enemy ground fire. When the aircraft commander arrived on station he directed a helicopter to secure the downed aircraft and he began attacking the well-fortified enemy positions. Captain Smith assisted the aircraft commander in locating the rocket launching positions, and as the aircraft made a firing run, placed a devastating volume of 40-mm. and mini-gun fire on the position, silencing it. Due to the accuracy of the combined rocket, 40-mm., and mini-gun fire, the ground forces were able to launch a successful counter attack. Although his aircraft was receiving ground fire and he was without a means to return fire from the gunner’s position, he remained calm and assisted the aircraft commander in locating the individual enemy positions. through his courage and professionalism, Captain Smith contributed greatly to the success of the mission. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.