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 Chief Warrant Officer Richard M. Louderback (ASN: W-3152610), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight, as evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty, while serving with the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. Warrant Officer Louderback distinguished himself by valorous action on 24 February 1967, while serving as the pilot of an armed helicopter providing suppressive fire for an armored unit conducting a search and destroy mission. Without warning, a Viet Cong force of undetermined size attacked the ground unit, inflicting heavy casualties. In complete disregard for the withering fire and his own safety, Warrant Officer Louderback fearlessly maneuvered his aircraft into a confined area and landed while fully exposed to intense automatic weapons fire from all sides. Although insurgent fire increased, Warrant Officer Louderback courageously remained in full view of the guerillas as he voluntarily supervised loading of wounded men and instructed the crew chief and door gunner in providing first aid. Displaying outstanding aerial technique and great courage, Warrant Officer Louderback then flew through the hail of fire to relative safety. Chief Warrant Officer Louderback’s personal bravery and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.