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 Chief Warrant Officer (W-2) Thomas C. Barnett, 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 on 14 November 1969. Chief Warrant Officer Barnett distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while flying as pilot in a light observation helicopter on a hunter-killer operation near Bear Cat. He detected signs of enemy activity while flying low level, and aggressively advanced into the area exposing his aircraft to force the enemy to reveal their location. He reconnoitered the area with minigun fire and directed his observer to do the same. He forced the enemy out of hiding by his tactics, then braved devastating enemy fire to attack their positions. In the ensuing firefight, he accounted for at least two enemy kills and his aircraft received several hits. His ammunition box was hit, setting off several small arms rounds, and he was severely wounded in his thigh. In spite of this wound, he maintained control of the aircraft and directed the gunship covering him to engage the target. He then flew the aircraft to a secure location and landed it safely before he was evacuated to a hospital. His 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.