AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  C-130E

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant William E. Crabtree for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a C-130E Pilot at Hue Phu Bai Airfield, Republic of Vietnam, on 29 January 1970. On that date, Lieutenant Crabtree's crew was diverted on an emergency evacuation priority mission to Hue Phu Bai Airfield. The crew was advised that the field was above minimums, but the weather proved marginal. Three approaches were attempted in severe weather conditions where the crew was subjected to moderate to severe turbulence, heavy rain showers, and marginal visibility. After the third approach, the crew returned to Da Nang because of low fuel. After refueling the field was sighted and a safe landing accomplished. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Crabtree reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.