The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Captain (Armor) James Mitchell Atchison, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 12 April 1970, while serving as a Pilot with the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Captain Atchison was flying a reconnaissance mission over known enemy locations. While making several low-level passes, the craft came under intense ground fire from the dense jungle. Although he was wounded, he realized that the helicopter’s controls were seriously damaged and attempted to aid the pilot to maneuver the craft. Captain Atchison quickly briefed the crew on how to prepare for the crash. As a result of his actions, four men were saved and soon evacuated. Captain Achison’s 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.