Sergeant Thomas E. Beranek distinguished himself by heroism while participating in aerial flight as Pararescue Specialist of a HH-53C helicopter on Koh Tang Island in the Gulf of Thailand on 15 May 1975.  On that date, Sergeant Beranek was a member of a HH-53C helicopter crew which on three separate occasions was forced to withdraw from the landing zone because of the severe hostile fire.  After these unsuccessful attempts to deliver a contingent of United States Marines and flying a battle damaged aircraft, the crew in spite of the known danger made a final attempt and delivered their contingent of United States Marines.  This courageous action aided in the recovery of the SS Mayaguez and its crew.  The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Beranek reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.