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 First Lieutenant (Armor) Thomas D. Mott, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 10 July 1969 while serving as a helicopter gunner with the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date he volunteered to fly with a light fire team in support of one of the regiment’s armored troops engaged with an enemy force. Despite the low night visibility, Lieutenant Mott placed accurate mini-gun and grenade fire on the hostile positions. When one of the helicopter gunships crashed, he radioed a nearby medical facility and gave directions for an evacuation helicopter. Continuing to disregard the low visibility, he remained in the area until rescue aircraft reached the crash site. First Lieutenant Mott’s courage and concern for the welfare of his fellow soldiers were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.