Senior Master Sergeant William D. Pruett distinguished himself by heroism while participating in aerial flight as an Pararescue Technician, 40^th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron, Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, on 28 January 1970. On that date, Sergeant Sutton participated in the attempted rescue of two airmen downed in hostile territory. Despite the numerous hostile forces and gun positions in the area, Sergeant Pruett and his fellow crew members continued with their valiant effort until their aircraft was downed by a hostile aircraft. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Pruett reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.