Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Major

    Action Date:

    March 13, 1971

    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special Orders G-1732 (June 3, 1971)

    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 Major William J. Osley (AFSN: FR-68565), United States Air Force, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Co-pilot of an HH-53 Rescue Helicopter near Tchepone, Laos, on 13 March 1971. On that date, Major Osley attempted the rescue of a wounded United States Navy pilot from certain death or capture by hostile armed forces. With full knowledge that another helicopter had twice been driven off by ground fire, and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Major Osley monitored the engine, transmission, and flight instruments; guarded the throttles; stood ready to take control of the helicopter if necessary; and radioed progress of the rescue attempt until withering ground fire crippled the helicopter and wounded four crew members, making continued rescue attempts impossible. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Major Osley reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Major

    Action Date:

    November 17, 1970

    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special Orders G-2323 (July 21, 1971)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Major William J. Osley (AFSN: FR-68565), United States Air Force, was awarded a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in Southeast Asia on 17 November 1970.