Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) William H. Anderson (ASN: 0-5328417), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Company C, 227th Aviation Battalion (Assault Helicopter) in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Anderson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 31 January 1968, while serving as a pilot of a UH-1H helicopter during a medical evacuation mission in the city of Hue, Republic of Vietnam. Upon receiving a request for the medical evacuation of five seriously wounded soldiers from a besieged compound within the city of Hue, Lieutenant Anderson, disregarding his own safety, flew his aircraft through the intense hostile ground to evacuate the wounded men. Although his aircraft received numerous hits and was severely damaged, Lieutenant Anderson skillfully piloted the aircraft to safety. By his courageous action the lives of the injured soldiers were saved. Lieutenant Anderson’s gallant action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Field Artillery)

    Batallion:

    227th Aviation Battalion (Assault Helicopter)

    Division:

    1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile)

    Action Date:

    April 19, 1968

    Headquarters, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), General Orders No. 6328 (June 26, 1968)

    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 (Field Artillery) William H. Anderson (ASN: 0-5328417), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Anderson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 19 April 1968, while serving as an aircraft commander of a UH-1H helicopter during a combat assault mission into the A Shau Valley, Republic of Vietnam. Lieutenant Anderson piloted his aircraft through intense high caliber and anti-aircraft weapons fire as he inserted the initial elements of U.S. ground forces into the North Vietnamese stronghold and major supply route. Throughout the day he was often forced to hover his aircraft over the bomb-blasted and jungle-covered landing zones, completely exposed to the heaviest of enemy fire, as the troops disembarked from his ship. Through his brave determination to overcome the many obstacles presented during the massive assault, the overall mission was successfully accomplished. Lieutenant Anderson’s outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.