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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to William C. Pearson, III, First Lieutenant, United States Army, Armor, 238 th Aviation Company (Aerial Weapons), Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 11 February 1971 for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: First Lieutenant Pearson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a co-pilot/gunner aboard an armed helicopter which was wing ship of a light fire team providing armed aerial escort to cargo helicopters in support of Allied operations. Each time his aircraft came under fire from heavy enemy automatic weapons, First Lieutenant Pearson retained his composure. He calmly directed effective suppressive fire onto the enemy locations. While escorting a cargo aircraft out of the landing zone back to its base of operations, First Lieutenant Pearson's aircraft came under heavy automatic weapons fire and took numerous hits which severed the hydraulic lines. He quickly noticed the warning lights and informed the aircraft commander, who was busy taking evasive action and making necessary radio calls. With the loss of both hydraulic systems, First Lieutenant Pearson gripped the cyclic stick with both hands, aiding the pilot in controlling the aircraft. With First Lieutenant Pearson's immeasurable assistance on the controls, he and the pilot were able to accomplish a safe landing on a nearby highway. First Lieutenant Pearson's outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.