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 Captain (Armor) Guillermo F. Gandara, United States Army, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Gandara distinguished himself on 1 October 1971 while serving as helicopter co-pilot and gunner on a reconnaissance mission in support of the 25th ARVN Division in the Krek, Cambodia area. His team’s mission was to pinpoint enemy positions for destruction by tactical airstrikes and artillery. Coming under intense .30 caliber fire from four enemy positions, Captain Gandara and his pilot elected to attack the guns, which had previously prevented the re-supply of an allied fire support base. Locating the enemy positions, he inflicted heavy casualties in the ensuing battle, destroying two enemy gun emplacements. When his helicopter’s engine was hit several times, causing it to burst into flames, he played a vital role in the save engine-out landing. After evacuating the burning craft, he and the pilot were soon rescued. Captain Gandara’s 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.