Major William Edward Adams was a member of the United States Army. He is a posthumous recipient of the military’s prestigious Medal of Honor. Major Adams earned his medal through a show of courage in Vietnam, where he ultimately lost his life.
Background
Adams’ passion for the outdoors started in childhood growing up near Casper, Wyoming. So, it was no surprise that after graduating high school, he found himself at Wentworth Military Academy. This is where his military journey began. In 1962, Adams joined the Army. Within a few years, he deployed with the 227 Assault Helicopter Company, 52D Aviation Battalion, 17th Aviation Group, 1st Aviation Brigade.
As Adams arrived in Vietnam in 1970, the war had already been raging for years. The North Vietnamese pushed south as democracy struggled to take root in the rest of the country.
It was during his tour in Vietnam that Adams’ bravery and valor shone through in the most extraordinary way. He found himself in the heat of battle. Here is where he risked his own life to save others and prevent further loss of life. In recognition of his heroic actions, Adams earned the Medal of Honor. His selflessness and dedication to duty serve as an inspiration to all who serve in the military, reminding us of the true cost of freedom and the extraordinary individuals who are willing to pay it.
Medal of Honor Citation
Maj. Adams distinguished himself on 25 May 1971 while serving as a helicopter pilot in Kontum province in the Republic of Vietnam. On that date, Maj. Adams volunteered to fly a lightly armed helicopter in an attempt to evacuate three seriously wounded soldiers from a small fire base which was under attack by a large enemy force. He made the decision with full knowledge that numerous antiaircraft weapons were positioned around the base and that the clear weather would afford the enemy gunners an unobstructed view of all routes into the base. As he approached the base, the enemy gunners opened fire with heavy machine guns, rocket-propelled grenades, and small arms. Undaunted by the fusillade, he continued his approach determined to accomplish the mission.
Displaying tremendous courage under fire, he calmly directed the attacks of supporting gunships while maintaining absolute control of the helicopter he was flying. He landed the aircraft at the fire base despite the ever-increasing enemy fire and calmly waited until the wounded soldiers were placed on board. As his aircraft departed from the fire base, it was struck and seriously damaged by enemy antiaircraft fire and began descending. Flying with exceptional skill, he immediately regained control of the crippled aircraft and attempted a controlled landing. Despite his valiant efforts, the helicopter exploded, overturned, and plummeted to earth amid the hail of enemy fire. Maj. Adams’ conspicuous gallantry, intrepidity, and humanitarian regard for his fellow man were in keeping with the most cherished traditions of the military service and reflected utmost credit on him and the U.S. Army.
Valor ceremony
During a special ceremony in 1972, Adams’ family was presented with his Medal of Honor. The recognition that Adams received for his bravery and selflessness continued even after his death.
Adams received not only the Medal of Honor, but also the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Bronze Star Medal. Similar to numerous others who served in the conflict, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial bears his name etched into the granite.
He is interred at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado, a fitting resting place for a man who dedicated his life to serving his country.
How to support the Medal of Honor mission
- Learn more about the Congressional Medal of Honor Society at cmohs.org or find them on Instagram |Facebook
- Participate in Medal of Honor Day on March 25 by sharing a recipient’s story
- Support veteran hiring and transition programs in your workplace
- Teach younger generations about the values of courage, sacrifice, and service
Medal of Honor Month isn’t just about recognizing history. It’s about keeping the mission alive for the future. Observe Medal of Honor March on We Are The Mighty here.