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 John P. Mandulak, United States Army, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty during the period 19 March 1970 to 30 June 1970 while serving as Commanding Officer of the 398th Transportation Detachment, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On 19 March during an encounter between the Second Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and North Vietnamese forces, a helicopter was forced down by ground-to-air fire. Captain Mandulak upon hearing the request for aid proceeded immediately to the scene. Despite heavy enemy fire against his aircraft he executed a successful landing near the downed helicopter and, after a sling was attached, proceeded to take off with the downed craft. Despite continuing enemy fire Captain Mandulak accomplished a successful extraction of the craft. Through similar flying ability, Captain Mandulak personally evacuated nine other downed aircraft under hazardous conditions during his service with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. Captain Madulak’s actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.