Sergeant William R. Pearson distinguished himself by gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force near Quang Tri City, Republic of Vietnam, on 6 April 1972.  On that date, Sergeant Pearson was flying as a Pararescue Specialist of an HH-53C Rescue Helicopter that was attempting to rescue the survivors of downed United States aircraft from certain death or capture by hostile armed forces.  Flying into a heavily defended area, the aircraft encountered severe ground fire and, while attempting to egress the area, received additional hostile fire rendering the aircraft uncontrollable at an extremely low altitude.  By his gallantry and devotion to duty in the dedication of his service to his country, Sergeant Pearson has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.