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 Specialist Fifth Class Richard L. Hambly (ASN: RA-18993030), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 16 October 1968 while serving with the Air Cavalry Troop of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date while flying as a crew chief on a low level reconnaissance mission over a thickly vegetated area, Specialist Hambly observed an enemy base camp consisting of a large number of well-fortified bunkers. Specialist Hambly was firing his M-79 and dropping white phosphorous and smoke grenades on the enemy positions when his aircraft received an intense barrage of enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire. On the second pass the aircraft was raked by heavy automatic weapons fire critically wounding the pilot and damaging the helicopter. Reacting instantly, Specialist Hambly grabbed the controls and assisted the wounded pilot in controlling the aircraft. As the pilot began to lose consciousness he instructed Specialist Hambly in flying the helicopter. Specialist Hambly managed to maneuver the damaged aircraft two kilometers from the enemy positions and safely landed it in the vicinity of friendly forces. Specialist Five Hambly’s unwavering devotion to duty, quick thinking and disregard for his 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.