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 Warrant Officer (W-1) William N. Benton, Jr. (ASN: W-3154805), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 189th Aviation Company, 1st Aviation Brigade, in action on 27 November 1967 in the Republic of Vietnam. Warrant Officer Benton distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander of a utility helicopter during a mission to extract a friendly force. The ground unit was surrounded by a superior enemy force and was in need of an emergency extraction. Warrant Officer Benton proceeded immediately to the area to attempt an extraction. Upon reaching the area, he brought his aircraft to a hover above the embattled unit and proceeded with the extraction. Throughout the extraction, his ship was subjected to the hostile fire. Warrant Officer Benton’s courage and devotion to duty contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. His actions are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.