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 Major (Infantry) William T. McElrath (ASN: 0-72513), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight while serving with the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. Major McElrath distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 11 March 1967, while serving as the pilot of a UH-1D helicopter in support of ground elements that had encountered heavy ground fire near Tay Ninh, Vietnam. The engagement lasted during most of the daylight hours, and as darkness approached, the Armored Cavalry Assault vehicles and tanks were rapidly expending their remaining supplies of ammunition. Major McElrath volunteered to fly an aerial re-supply mission despite the darkness and the extremely hostile conditions at the landing zone. His professional flying ability enabled him to execute a landing in the difficult area and deliver the vital supply of ammunition. Leaving the area, Major McElrath overheard a radio communication asking for medical evacuation for several wounded men. Without hesitation, Major McElrath immediately proceeded to the landing zone that the friendly elements had carved out of the dense jungle, and dropped into the area with only the lights of the armored vehicles to guide him. Although the dusty conditions of the area prevented a visual ascent, Major McKlrath succeeded in executing a professional instrument take off. Major McElrath’s outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.