Airman First Class William H, Hughes, Jr,, distinguished himself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an HH53C Pararescue Recovery Specialist, 40th Aerospace1 Rescue and Recovery Squadron at Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand on 10 December 1971, On that date, Airman Hughes exemplary knowledge and outstanding airmanship, displayed under extremely hazardous conditions, culminated in the successful rescue of an American airman, whose aircraft had been shot down deep within hostile territory. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Airman Hughes reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.