(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Lieutenant Commander William Tepuni (NSN: 0-83095), United States Navy, was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a medium bomber and group leader in a patrol bombing squadron on 21 March 1945.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander William Tepuni (NSN: 0-83095), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the line of his profession, displayed on 1 March 1942, while participating in an aerial flight as Pilot of a U.S. Navy Patrol Plane. His alertness, skill and correct estimate of the situation resulted in a prompt, and well executed attack. His performance of duty on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.