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) Richard L. Mathews, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 27 April 1970 while serving as a pilot with Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date Troop B had encountered an enemy force. During the initial moments of contact an assault vehicle was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade, injuring the driver. When the medical evacuation helicopter arrived to remove the wounded man it received such an intense volume of fire that it was not able to land. Warrant Officer Mathews volunteered to attempt the rescue. Maneuvering his craft through the deadly enemy fire, he landed the helicopter and picked up the injured soldier, flying him to al nearby aid station. Warrant Officer Mathews 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.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Warrant Officer One (WO-1) Richard L. Mathews, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 12 June 1970 while serving as a pilot with the Aviation Section, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, as Troop A was being engaged by an enemy force of unknown size, Warrant Officer Mathews was flying over the contact area in his Command and Control helicopter. With complete disregard for his safety, he descended to a dangerously low level in order to adjust artillery upon the enemy positions. Then, even though his aircraft had been severely damaged by enemy fire, he responded to a call for medical evacuation. As Warrant Officer Mathews landed near the casualties, his craft began to receive intense fire from the enemy positions. Once the wounded were on hand, he skillfully ascended, still under intense enemy fire, and flew to the nearest medical facility. Warrant Officer Mathews’ 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.