Airman First Class Nicholas Gala Jr. distinguished himself by heroism while participating in aerial flight as an HH-43F Pararescue Specialist near Brang Klan, Republic of Vietnam on 6 April 1968. On that date, Airman Gala participated in the search and attempted extraction of a downed pilot. With unwaivering calmness and courage, Airman Gala was voluntarily lowered into known hostile territory. His perseverance was responsible for locating the downed crewmember and only when forced out by darkness did Airman Gala cease his efforts to recover the downed airman. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Airman Gala reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.