The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) James D. Speer (ASN: 0-5343897), 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 19 December 1968 in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Speer distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Pilot and Gunner of an armed UH-1C helicopter, in support of a friendly force that was completely surrounded and outnumbered. Lieutenant Speer put deadly and accurate minigun fire to within 30 meters of the friendly positions, although receiving heavy enemy fire on each pass and taking numerous hits in the aircraft. Although two of the crew were wounded, he continued to overfly enemy weapons positions and thereby drew their fire away from the beleaguered force and permitted them to escape from their extremely perilous situation. 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.