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 Warrant Officer One (WO-1) Loren V. McAnally (ASN: W-3155079), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. Warrant Officer McAnally distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 2 February 1968, while a passenger on an armed helicopter during a routine flight near Chu Lai, Republic of Vietnam. When the aircraft came under intense hostile ground fire, killing the pilot and seriously wounding the aircraft commander, Warrant Officer McAnally, disregarding the possibilities that the extreme altitudes of the aircraft could cause him to be thrown from the cabin section, disconnected his seat belt and immediately regained control of the battered aircraft. His immediate aggressive action resulted in saving the aircraft and crew. Warrant Officer McAnally’s outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.



