AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  UH-1D

Citation:  1.) The Distinguished Flying Cross, 21 October 1967, Republic of Vietnam, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty Chief Warrant Officer Wieland distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander aboard a UH-1D helicopter delivering emergency resupply and medical evacuation missions in the vicinity of Phuoc Vinh. A Special Forces unit was heavily engaged in a fierce firefight with a large enemy force, and Chief Warrant Officer Wieland courageously volunteered to fly in support of the beleaguered soldiers. The only available landing zone was a narrow stream bordered on both banks by tall trees, only fifty meters from the enemy positions. He executed a high-speed, low level approach and maneuvered spectacularly through the narrow flight path toward the battle site. Heedless of enemy bullets striking all around him, he held his aircraft in a steady hover while vitally needed ammunition was unloaded and casualties were placed aboard. When the ship was loaded to capacity with wounded, he ascended skillfully and flew the casualties to medical facilities. He then returned to the battle site, delivered more supplies and evacuated the rest of the casualties. His fearless and determined efforts saved the lives of many wounded fellow soldiers and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the Untied States Army.

2.) Wieland, William B., Chief Warrant Officer CW2, United States Army, 118th Assault Helicopter Company, is awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (First Oak Leaf Cluster), 5 February 1968, Republic of Vietnam, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty Chief Warrant Officer Wieland distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander aboard a troop transport helicopter airlifting infantry soldiers into a landing zone. The flight of ten helicopters was subjected to intense automatic weapons and small arms fire. As Chief Warrant Officer Wieland's helicopter touched down, enemy soldiers stood up ten meters away and began raking it with automatic weapons fire. As the helicopter lifted off, its master control panel indicated serious power failure, and Chief Warrant Officer Wieland was forced to land in the middle of a rice paddy. As he directed his crew to remove all weapons and communications equipment, the aircraft settled in the mud and began to shake violently. Chief Warrant Officer Wieland immediately rolled the throttle back on so that the wounded could be safely removed from the ship. Despite relentless enemy sniper fire striking all around him, he directed the successful evacuation of casualties and equipment from the downed helicopter shortly before the enemy overran the area and destroyed the aircraft. 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.