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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Leonard W. Bumgardner, First Lieutenant, Infantry, United States Army, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 212th Aviation Battalion, Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 5 June 1969 for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: First Lieutenant Bumgardner distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as pilot of a light observation airplane. Notified of an enemy rocket attack on Dong Ha combat base, he picked up a Marine observer and flew to the area of suspected enemy rocket launchers. Observing two rocket launching positions, he called in air strikes and artillery on the sites which were subsequently destroyed. When allied ground forces entered the area to secure the enemy positions, he remained on station to direct them. As a result of his efforts, 35 enemy rockets were captured. His initiative and flying skill contributed significantly to the defense of an Allied camp. 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.