The President of the United States of America, authorized by Title 10, Section 8742, United States Code, takes pleasure in presenting the Air Force Cross to Captain David H. Williams (AFSN: 0-3133822), United States Air Force, for extraordinary heroism in military operations against an opposing armed force as the Electronics Warfare Officer for the leader of an F-105 Thunderchief flight of the 44th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Korat Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand, attacking a vital military target in the vicinity of Hanoi, North Vietnam, on 27 October 1967. On that date, with his aircraft hit and burning, Captain Williams exhibited the highest order of courage as he continued to guide his pilot through intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire to attack and destroy a hostile surface-to-air missile complex that was threatening a large F-105 strike force. With his aircraft still in flames he assisted his pilot in initiating rescue efforts for a wingman down in the target area. Captain Williams then constantly provided positions as the pilot flew the crippled aircraft 300 miles to a skillful emergency landing. Through his extraordinary heroism, superb airmanship, and aggressiveness in the face of hostile forces, Captain Williams reflected the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.




