The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Third Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in addition to a previously awarded Silver Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Ninth Award of the Air Medal with Combat “V” to Specialist Fifth Class Alfred F. Cuozzo (ASN: RA-28802669), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Fifth Class Cuozzo distinguished himself by heroic action on 15 February 1967, while serving with Company B, 4th Aviation Battalion, 4th Infantry Division. On this date, Specialist Fifth Class Cuozzo was a Door Gunner on an armed helicopter operating in support of a helicopter troops assault in the vicinity of Plei Djerang. As the lead flight of troop-carrying helicopters approached the designated landing zone, the aircraft crews reported heavy enemy fire. As his aircraft began its firing run, Specialist Fifth Class Cuozzo rapidly detected the location of enemy weapons and began placing highly effective suppressive fire on them. This action enabled the troop ships to depart the landing zone without loss of a single aircraft or life. Although his aircraft was being raked by intense hostile fire, Specialist Fifth Class Cuozzo fearlessly leaned from the aircraft, bringing himself into full view of the enemy, in order to continue to place fire on their positions directly below. His exemplary courage under fire, and his professional skill with his weapon, are characteristic of an outstanding combat soldier. The actions of Specialist Fifth Class Cuozzo are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.