Airman First Class Harry W. Birtel distinguished himself by heroism while participating in aerial flight as a Rescue Helicopter Pararescueman over North Vietnam on 18 November 1965.  On that date, Airman Birtel’s outstanding professional abilities and devotion to duty were the instrumental factors in the successful accomplishment of the rescue of a downed F-105 pilot, within hostile territory and under the constant threat of hostile ground fire.  The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Airman Birtel reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.