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) George S. Barnes (ASN: W-3160128), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 23 January 1969 while serving as an Aircraft Commander in a Cobra gunship with the Air Cavalry Troop of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Warrant Officer Barnes’ aircraft was supporting elements of the Aero Rifle Platoon, which were performing a reconnaissance mission. As the friendly forces advanced toward a suspected enemy position, they were suddenly engaged by an enemy force of unknown size. Observing that the troopers were pinned down by the heavy concentration of enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire, Warrant Officer Barnes immediately maneuvered his aircraft at tree-top level and directed a highly accurate barrage of rocket fire into the hostile positions. He continued this action until the friendly ground unit was reinforced and the enemy positions overrun. He then answered a call for assistance from a scout helicopter which had observed two enemy soldiers attempting to evade the friendly forces in the area. By directing a barrage of suppressive fire upon the two enemy soldiers, he held them in place until they were captured by friendly ground forces. Warrant Officer Barnes’ dedication to duty and disregard for personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.