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 Specialist Fifth Class James E. Manley (ASN: RA-52967759), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty on 29 October 1968 while serving as a scout observer with the Air Cavalry Troop of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Specialist Manley was participating in a reconnaissance mission over dense jungle terrain when he observed a Viet Cong platoon concealed in the dense undergrowth. Specialist Manley directed highly accurate barrage of M-79 grenade and M-16 rifle fire into the hostile force while his aircraft commander marked the enemy positions. The aircraft commander had to disengage the contact because he was running low on fuel and ammunition. Upon his return to the engagement, Specialist Manley observed two enemy soldiers attempting to evade the friendly forces. He immediately pinpointed their position and kept them under observation until they were surrounded and captured. Specialist Five Manley’s unwavering devotion to duty, professional ability and disregard of personal safety while under hostile fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.