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 J. Swendner, United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an F-4C Aircraft Commander near Phuc Yen Airfield, Republic of Vietnam on 14 July 1966. On that date, Captain Swendner was leading a flight of four tactical jet fighters escorting a flight of three F105 aircraft. Captain Swendner observed a hostile aircraft attacking one of the F-105’s. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Captain Swendner led a sidewinder offensive against the hostile aircraft, completely destroying it. This courageous and timely act prevented the hostile aircraft from completing his attack and saved at least one F-105. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Swendner reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.