Master Sergeant Ted R. Hawkins distinguished himself by gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as Pararescue Technician on an HH-3E helicopter near Dong Hoi, North Vietnam on 23 August 1967.  On that date, Sergeant Hawkins volunteered to descend on a forest penetrator to recover an injured Air Force pilot even though his aircraft was under hostile attack at the time.  Before he could reach the survivor, firing became so intense that the helicopter was forced to discontinue the effort and Sergeant Hawkins was hoisted back on board where he immediately manned the M-60 machine gun and delivered suppressive fire to cover the aircraft’s withdrawal.  By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Hawkins reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.