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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain William J. Pelham for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller near Hue, Republic of Vietnam from 14 to 15 August 1965 and again on 20 October 1965. On these dates, while flying in a light observation aircraft, Captain Pelham controlled air support in conjunction with the defense of the Ba Long Valley outpost in a hostile occupied area. The results of the air operations and support on these dates were truly outstanding resulting in the retention of the outpost and inflicting heavy damage on the hostile force. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Pelham reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.