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 (Armor) Richard T. Todd (ASN: 0-5538978), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 23 January 1969 while serving as a pilot with the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date while flying routine reconnaissance mission, he was diverted to the scene of a fierce engagement to provide security for friendly ground units. Upon arriving at the scene of the engagement, Lieutenant Todd began flying at extremely low altitude in order to provide adequate flank security for the American forces on the ground. When he monitored a call for an emergency evacuation he unhesitatingly volunteered to carry out the dangerous mission. After locating the critically wounded soldier’s position he maneuvered his aircraft into the extremely small landing zone and evacuated the casualty to a hospital. First Lieutenant Todd’s courage and dedication 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.

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 First Lieutenant (Armor) Richard T. Todd (ASN: 0-5538978), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 17 March 1969 while serving as a helicopter pilot with the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date while on a low level reconnaissance mission, Lieutenant Todd located a large enemy force. After marking the hostile positions for airstrikes and helicopter gunship assaults he flew in low over the enemy force and covered it with accurate mini gun and rifle fire. Despite the increasing intensity of the enemy ground fire, Lieutenant Todd remained in the area for ten hours and continued directing airstrikes and raking the enemy bunkers with devastating fire. His heroic actions resulted in the defeat of the enemy force and the destruction or damaging of numerous hostile fortifications. First Lieutenant Todd’s outstanding courage 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.