The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Frank Tipton Birk, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller in Southeast Asia, on 18 May 1971. On that date, while flying a visual reconnaissance mission over an hostile area through sustained antiaircraft and small arms fire, Lieutenant Birk maintained control of his severely damaged aircraft despite the wounds he received. Through his personal bravery under fire, outstanding judgment, personal dedication and determination, a valuable aircraft and two aircrew members lives were saved. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Birk reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.