The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” to First Lieutenant Joseph L. Cordina, United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a C-130E Pilot for the 21st Tactical Airlift Squadron at Kontum Airfield, Republic of Vietnam, on 25 May 1972. On that date, Lieutenant Cordina flew an emergency night mission into Kontum Airfield to recover an Air Force mobility team and a combat control team. With total disregard for his own personal safety, in spite of heavy anti-aircraft fire, mortars, and intense automatic weapons activity, Lieutenant Cordina performed his aircrew duties with exact precision, saving the lives of fifteen men. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Cordina reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.