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 (Armor) Turner L. Nelson (ASN: 0-84796), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight, evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Nelson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 21 November 1966 while commanding three armed helicopters covering a supply convoy near An Loc. When the convoy received a sudden attack from a large Viet Cong force in trenches and strong fortifications throughout the area, Captain Nelson immediately coordinated the air and ground elements and led firing passes on the hostile positions. While receiving intense fire on four passes, he pinpointed the exact locations of the insurgents and directed two air strikes without endangering the convoy. When four additional gunships arrived, he organized them into a daisy chain which encircled the Viet Cong. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he remained exposed to ground fire far into the night while managing each defensive maneuver of the air elements. His aggressiveness saved lives and equipment in the convoy and enabled its men to regroup and repulse the Viet Cong. Captain Nelson’s outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.