AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  F-100

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major William A. McCollum. Major McCollum distinguished himself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an F-100 Pilot near Tay Ninh City, Republic of Vietnam, on 2 September 1968. On that date, at 0250 hours, Major McCollum flew a mission to provide close air support for a special force camp in grave danger of being overrun by a large hostile force. Despite intense hostile ground fire being directed at this aircraft on each pass, Major McCollum, with complete disregard for his own safety, made numerous low-altitude passes. With exceptional aerial skill, he delivered his ordnance within 50 meters of friendly position, thereby routing the hostile forces. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major McCollum reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.