The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Aquilla Friend Britt (AFSN: 0-3065105), United States Air Force (Reserve), for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as Pilot of an F-105 Thunderchief of the 469th Tactical Fighter Squadron, 388th Tactical Fighter Wing, Korat Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand, in action over Vu Chua Rail Yard, North Vietnam, on 10 May 1967. On that date, Captain Britt flew the first single ship night low-level radar attack against this vital target in North Vietnam. Flying 500 to 1,000 feet above the ground in adverse weather the single ship F-105F encountered intense anti-aircraft fire while still sixty miles from target. Undaunted, and maneuvering solely on instruments, Captain Britt pressed on to the target where he experienced heavy anti-aircraft fire. Disregarding his own personal safety, Captain Britt accurately placed his bombs on this vital target and obtained numerous secondary explosions. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Britt has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.




