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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Warrant Officer William P. Norden for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. Warrant Officer Norden distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander of a transport helicopter in support of a long range patrol in heavy contact near Bu Dop. Although his aircraft was dangerously low on fuel and the patrol under heavy fire, he hovered his aircraft down through the multi-canopied jungle to a point where the patrol could get into rigs for extraction. Once the patrol members were in the rigs, he made the ascent through the jungle canopy and flew back to Bu Dop. Due to his quick reactions and clear thinking, he was insturmental in the sucessful recovery of the patrol. 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.