Airman First Class Douglas L. Horka distinguished himself by heroism while participating in aerial flight as an HH-3E Rescue Specialist in Southeast Asia, on 19 November 1968.  On that date, Airman Horka penetrated heavy concentrations of anti-aircraft flak and automatic weapons fire to successfully recover an Air Force pilot.  He covered the helicopter’s approach with his machine gun when opposing forces fired at close range then continued to expose himself in the open doorway during the hoist operation to provide suppressive firepower against converging hostile forces.  The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Airman Horka reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.