Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

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 William H. Babcock, Jr., 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 Babcock distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 31 January 1968, while serving as an aircraft commander of an armed helicopter during a combat mission near Hue, Republic of Vietnam. While performing visual reconnaissance of a battle site, Lieutenant Babcock’s aircraft came under intense hostile ground fire. Disregarding his own safety, he flew his helicopter at a low altitude and low speed to gather the needed information. When his aircraft received numerous hits, Lieutenant Babcock skillfully flew the damaged helicopter to safety. His outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Action Date:

    Vietnam War

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal to First Lieutenant William H. Babcock, Jr., United States Army, for outstanding meritorious service in connection with ground operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Through his untiring efforts and professional ability, he consistently obtained outstanding results. He was quick to grasp the implications of new problems with which he was faced as a result of the ever changing situations inherent in a counterinsurgency operation and to find ways and means to solve those problems. The energetic application of his extensive knowledge has materially contributed to the efforts of the United States mission to the Republic of Vietnam to assist that country in ridding itself of the communist threat to its freedom. His initiative, zeal, sound judgment and devotion to duty have been in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit on him and the Military Service.

  • Prisoner of War Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Division:

    Prisoner of War (South Vietnam)

    Action Date:

    January 31, 1968 – January 31, 1968

    First Lieutenant William Babcock was captured on January 31, 1968 and became a Prisoner of War in South Vietnam until he successfully escaped later the same day.