William McAllister was more than just a hero in Vietnam - he was a legend. In 1964, American combat troops had not yet landed on the foreign soil, but USAF pilots were actively in combat situations supporting the South Vietnamese. Although trained in a variety of jets and planes, Major McAllister made his mark in a small Cessna - dubbed 'Bird Dog'. Flying below the treetops, he acted as a Forward Air Controller - locating enemy troops and firing a colored flare to identify them for the big bombers and ground troops. In March, 1965, he was awarded the second-highest medal for valor - the Air Force Cross - and was known by his comrades as "Mac the FAC". On April 22, 1965, he was flying his last mission before going home. Just as he swooped low to release the flare, he was shot down.

McAllister, William W.
Major, U.S. Air Force
22nd ARVN Division, Qui Nhon AB, RVN
Date Of Action March 9 & 10, 1965
Citation
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Title 10, Section 8742, United States Code, awards the Air Force Cross to Major William W. McAllister for extraordinary heroism in military operations against an opposing armed force over the Republic of Vietnam on 9 and 10 March 1965. On these dates, acting as a forward air controller under extremely adverse weather conditions and at night, he directed numerous air strikes in support of the Vietnamese Marines and their three American advisors. With complete disregard for his own safety, Major McAllister sought out targets ahead of the advancing Marines while under prolonged periods of hostile ground fire at dangerously low altitudes. Through his personal efforts, two American casualties were evacuated and the entire Marine unit effectively assisted in obtaining and securing their objectives. He also flew under extremely hazardous conditions under a low ceiling at night in mountainous terrain in an effort to assist friendly positions. Through his extraordinary heroism, superb airmanship, and aggressiveness in the face of hostile forces, Major McAllister reflected the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Source:
Bruce Swander, Washington DC, USMC/66-70