The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant William Michael Hembrough, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an F-100 Tactical Fighter Pilot with the 614th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Phan Rang Air Base, South Vietnam, in action near Phan Rang, Republic of Vietnam, on 31 January 1971. On that date, Lieutenant Hembrough flew on a close air support mission assisting friendly units who were in direct contact with an opposing armed force. Despite severely limited visibility, heavy smoke, and mountainous terrain, Lieutenant Hembrough, with complete disregard for his personal safety, made repeated attacks on the opposing force. By brilliant aircraft control and aggressive ingenuity, Lieutenant Hembrough was able to assist in the destruction of numerous bunker complexes, enabling the friendly forces to continue their sweep of the area. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Hembrough reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.