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.