The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Major General Robert Ray Williams (ASN: 0-22962), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving as Commanding General, 1st Aviation Brigade. Major General Williams distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 18 February 1968 as commander of a helicopter operating near Phu Loi. He was alerted to a mortar and rocket attack on Phu Loi installation and immediately flew to the site to aid in locating the enemy firing positions. Fully aware that there were no gunships available in the immediate area for fire support, General Williams unhesitatingly began a search for the hostile emplacements and located two enemy rocket sites near the compound. He then skillfully maneuvered his aircraft in repeated firing passes on the weapons, and his door gunners destroyed both of them. Immediately after neutralizing the rocket positions, he monitored a call requesting medical evacuation for a seriously wounded American soldier. General Williams responded immediately and landed his aircraft amid enemy mortar fire on the besieged airfield. The casualty was loaded aboard and successfully evacuated to medical facilities at Long Binh. General Williams’ outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his command, and the United States Army.