Staff Sergeant Eugene L. Nardi distinguished himself by heroism while participating in aerial flight as a Rescue Specialist on an HH-3E near Danang, Republic of Vietnam on 24 March 1969. On that date, Sergeant Nardi’s aircraft penetrated a hostile environment to attempt the rescue of a downed airman, despite ground fire which had driven off the helicopter attempting the rescue initially. While maintaining a hover, his aircraft was subjected to continuous ground fire, however the rescue effort was continued and after a prolonged hover the injured survivor was rescued. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Nardi reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.