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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant William J. Bounds for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. First Lieutenant Bounds distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Pilot of an OH-6A light observation helicopter on a reconnaissance mission northeast of Muc Hoa. When he and his wing man overflew a grassy area and received intense automatic weapons and small arms fire, the wing man was seriously wounded, and his helicopter crashed in the middle of the enemy force. He returned to the crash and landed next to the wing ship. During the evacuation of the observer and injured Pilot, several enemy soldiers were killed within 20 meters of the site. Lieutenant Bounds placed the injured Pilot on the aircraft, then skillfully flew out of the area to safety and medical attention. Through his courage and sound judgment, he contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission and succeeding in saving the lives of two men. 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.