The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel Richard G. Collins, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as a F-4D Aircraft Commander in the 40th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Udorn Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand, PACIFIC Air Forces, in action in Southeast Asia, on 7 October 1967. On that date, Lieutenant Colonel Collins led the first radar bombing attack against a highly defended airfield. Despite aggressive attacks by hostile aircraft, Lieutenant Colonel Collins maintained precise bombing formation and successfully destroyed his target. He subsequently engaged one MiG-17. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Colonel Collins has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.




