The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Clyde Willis McComas (ASN: 0-5336352), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in Laos. Captain McComas distinguished himself on 10 February 1971 while serving as copilot and gunner of an AH-1G armed helicopter during a reconnaissance mission in support of Army of the Republic of Vietnam troops in Laos. During the mission, the accompanying light observation helicopter came under intense enemy anti-aircraft fire which wounded both pilots and forced an emergency landing. Captain McComas immediately placed suppressive fire to protect the downed crew. He continued to engage the enemy until his aircraft sustained numerous hits forcing him to execute an emergency landing. While on the ground, Captain McComas delivered suppressive fire with his personal weapon. After being extracted by the accompanying attack helicopter he again placed fire allowing the command and control helicopter to extract the other downed crew. Captain McComas’ outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.