AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  B-52

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain William H. Rouse for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a B-52 Copilot near Vinh, North Vietnam, on 10 November 1972. On that date, Captain Rouse was tasked with leading a cell of B-52's against a target essential to the North Vietnamese logistic effort. After flying the exacting air speed and course necessary for an accurate weapon delivery, he was instrumental in evading three surface-to-air missiles, thus allowing his crew and aircraft to return safely. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Rouse reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.