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 Captain William C. Rose, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a KC-135 Aircraft Commander assigned to the 310th Strategic Wing (Provisional), U-Tapao Airfield, Thailand, on 15 October 1972. On that date, despite adverse operating conditions, he superbly effected a rendezvous with, and successfully refueled, a tactical fighter strike aircraft which was critically short of fuel. His immediate response and courageous action, in an unarmed, fuel-laden tanker aircraft, saved a valuable combat aircraft and prevented the possible death or capture of its two crew members. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Rose reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.