AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  UH-1C

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Cunningham, James R., Captain, Field Artillery, United States Army, 155 Aviation Company (Assault Helicopter), Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 1 July 1969 for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: Captain Cunningham distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as the aircraft commander of a gunship aiding a friendly company in heavy contact with an enemy force. Despite hazardous weather conditions and heavy enemy fire, he made repeated passes on the enemy emplacements, utilizing his rockets and miniguns until he had silenced the enemy weapons, thus allowing a medivac ship to land and evacuate the casualties. His 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.