Colonel William Arthur Kehler, US Air Force retired from North Little Rock, received several awards, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal (three times), and 12 Air Medals. Over his 30-year career, he logged approximately 4,600 flying hours, with over 700 hours in combat missions in Southeast Asia, flying 90 combat missions.

His assignments included roles at Da Nang, Bien Hoa, and Cam Ranh Bay in Vietnam, piloting the C-123 Provider and C-130 Hercules. He also served stateside as Chief US Air Force Officer for Structured Deputy Commander of the 60th Military Airlift Wing, and Commander of the 314th Tactical Airlift Wing.

The citation for the Distinguished Flying Cross praised Major Kehler for his extraordinary achievement on June 7, 1973, while flying an AC-130 gunship escort mission in Southeast Asia. His actions led to the destruction of two hostile shore artillery batteries, ensuring the safe passage of a river convoy, which brought essential supplies and ammunition to the city. His professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty brought great credit upon himself and the US Air Force.