AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  C-47

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel William W. Perry for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a C-47 Aircraft Commander over Bien Hoa Province, Republic of Vietnam on 5 May 1968. On that date, Colonel Perry was flying a night flare illumination mission against a large number of hostile forces who were massing for an extensive attack on Bien Hoa Air Base. Colonel Perry provided continuous and highly accurate illumination throughout the night, depsite the congested air traffic and intense anti-aircraft fire directed at his aircraft. The illumination provided by his flares was instrumental in the defeat of the hostile forces and thus prevented the attack on the air base. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Perry reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.