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 Specialist Fourth Class Jackie L. Combest, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam while serving with the 189th Aviation Company (Assault Helicopter), 1st Aviation Brigade, on 9 May 1969 in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Fourth Class Combest distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action while serving as door gunner on a UH-1H helicopter during the extraction of allied troops near Ben Het. With his M-60 machine gun suppressing enemy positions on each attempt to land, the aircraft touched down on the third approach. After loading several wounded soldiers, the aircraft lifted off and flew to Ben Het for medical aid. Upon returning to the hostile landing zone, he again covered his aircraft’s approach with accurate fire and as the aircraft touched down, he volunteered to leave the ship and check for any remaining survivors. He braved the fire as he searched for survivors in the area. Discovering one soldier still alive, he picked him up and ran back to his ship, dodging enemy rounds as he went. He secured the injured man and took up his position behind his machine gun as his aircraft flew to safety. His display of courage and concern for human life were highly instrumental in 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.