The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal to Major General William Miller Charles, Jr., United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. General Charles distinguished himself as Chief of Staff, Fourth Allied Tactical Air Force, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Heidelberg, Germany, from 14 September 1985 to 30 September 1986. In this important assignment, his leadership, dedication, tireless efforts and superior managerial ability significantly enhanced the operational capabilities and readiness of our air forces. General Charles’ performance throughout this period had been characterized by decisiveness, resourcefulness, professional excellence and unquestionable personal integrity. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Charles culminate a long and distinguished career in the service of his country and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal to Major General William Miller Charles, Jr., United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. General Charles distinguished himself as Deputy Chief of Staff/Plans, Headquarters Air Training Command, Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, from 1 April 1979 to 30 November 1982. In this important assignment, General Charles redefined, restructured, and expanded Air Training Command’s role in support of Air Force global readiness commitments and established the direction and character of the Undergraduate Pilot Training program for the remainder of this century. The outstanding results of this sensitive planning effort are a testimonial to the individual interest, depth, and guidance provided by General Charles. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Charles reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.