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) Jonathan D. Kurtz, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 2 June 1969 while serving as a pilot with the Aviation Platoon, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date Warrant Officer Kurtz was the pilot for the regimental commander when a small force of North Vietnamese was spotted below during a visual reconnaissance. Despite intense ground fire, he teamed with the aircraft commander, maneuvering at treetop level to permit the door gunners to bring accurate fire against the hostile force. He provided a smooth ride so there was as much stability as possible. When gunships arrived the aircraft maneuvered out of the line of fire, but remained close to observe the effect of the gunships. After the gunships had expended their ammunition and departed, the aircraft was brought immediately back into the danger zone and remained on station until elements of the regiment arrived to provide relief. The presence of the low-flying ship kept a portion of the enemy immobilized and permitted the capture of two enemy soldiers and their equipment and removal of one enemy body. Warrant Officer Kurtz’s 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.