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 (Artillery) William W. Anderson, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty 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 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 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 are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.