Captain Richard L. Tinney distinguished himself by outstanding achievement as Aircraft Commander of a C-130 Aircraft over South Central Alaska on 9 June 1965. On that date, carrying a load of twenty-four passengers. Captain Tinney was unable to lower and lock the nose gear after using all emergency procedures, which was further complicated by an uncontrollable droop of the nose ski. After several attempts, Captain Tinney regained control of the nose ski and directed the Flight Mechanic and Loadmaster to chop a hole in the nose wheel well, pry the nose gear down and chain it in that position to reduce the risk of it collapsing on landing. By his resourcefulness and airmanship Captain Tinney saved his aircraft and passengers which reflects credit upon himself, the Alaskan Air Command, and the United States Air Force.