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) Paul R. Soderlund (ASN: W-3159213), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 23 January 1969 while serving as co-pilot in a Cobra gunship with the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date Warrant Officer Soderlund’s aircraft was being used to support elements of the Aero Rifle Platoon, which were performing a reconnaissance mission. As the friendly forces advanced toward a suspected enemy position, they were suddenly engaged by an enemy force of unknown size. Warrant Officer Soderlund, observing that the troopers were pinned down by the heavy concentration of enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire, immediately maneuvered his aircraft at tree top level directing a highly accurate barrage of 40-mm. grenade and mini-gun fire at the positions. He continued this action until the small friendly ground unit was reinforce an the enemy positions overrun. Later he directed a barrage of suppressive fire upon two enemy soldiers, pinning them down until they were captured by friendly ground forces. Warrant Officer Soderlund’s dedication to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.