The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery) William G. Chamberlain (ASN: 0-70173), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 52d Combat Aviation Battalion, 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 21 September 1968. Lieutenant Colonel Chamberlain distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as an Aviation Battalion commander during a combat assault operation in the Republic of Vietnam. He deliberately exposed his aircraft to hostile fire after two UH-1 aircraft burst into flames and crashed in a small landing zone. He hovered through 100 foot trees into the single ship landing zone, had his own aircraft fire extinguisher thrown to the ground forces, and made a rapid assessment of the situation. This act enabled him to render prompt and timely recommendations to the ground commander for the use of an alternate landing zone. Having located another landing zone in addition to replacing the lost aircraft, Lieutenant Colonel Chamberlain remained on station in extremely poor weather and darkness to direct the hazardous insertion. Through his expert leadership and untiring efforts, the lift aircraft were able to insert 65 additional troops into the alternate landing zone. The ultimate success of the mission was due, in great measure, to Lieutenant Colonel Chamberlain’s courage and professional competence. 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.