AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  -

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major William P. Gillette, III for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. Major Gillette distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as mission commander on a search and destroy mission in Choung Thien Province. When an allied ground unit engaged a large enemy force, he directed aircraft to the area and a vast number of enemy positions were destroyed. Later, Major Gillette directed an insertion of infantry on a suspected enemy position. When the lift platoon was taken under fire and one helicopter was downed, he inserted an aero rifle platoon, and in the fire fight which followed, he directed all aircraft in such a manner that no further damage was sustained by either personnel or aircraft. His quick thinking, aggressive actions, and extraordinary leadership under fire insured the complete success of a difficult operation. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.