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 Warrant Officer One (WO-1) Dennis A. Drake, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 27 April 1969, while serving as a light observation helicopter pilot with the 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Warrant Officer Drake was conducting an aerial reconnaissance mission near a Viet Cong-infested area. Upon encountering an enemy base camp he began to circle it at tree-top level. After notifying the squadron commander of the presence of hostile soldiers, they both engaged the enemy in a fierce exchange of fire. The squadron commander’s helicopter was disabled and he was forced to withdraw while Warrant Officer Drake remained in contact with the Viet Cong. An enemy soldier was spotted fleeing the area and at extremely low altitude, he maneuvered his craft to allow his rear gunner an opportunity to engage and kill him. Warrant Officer Drake’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.