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 a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Airman First Class Michael A. Curtis, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force near Tchepone, Laos, on 13 March 1971. On that date, Airman Curtis was a Pararescue Specialist on an HH-53 Rescue Helicopter that twice attempted the rescue of a wounded United States Navy pilot from certain death or capture by hostile armed forces. With full knowledge of the extent of hostile fire in the area, and with complete disregard for his own safety, Airman Curtis continued to expose himself manning his gun position after being wounded, until withering ground fire crippled the helicopter and wounded another crew member, making continued rescue attempts impossible. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Airman Curtis has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Silver Star
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Silver Star
Service:
United States Air ForceRank:
Airman First ClassAction Date:
February 26, 1971
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 Airman First Class Michael A. Curtis, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force near Khe Sanh, Republic of Vietnam, on 26 February 1971. On that date, as a Pararescue Specialist on an HH-53 Rescue Helicopter, Airman Curtis’ efforts culminated in the rescue of two United States Air Force air crewman from certain death or capture by hostile armed forces. With full knowledge of the extent of hostile fire in the area and complete disregard for his own personal safety, and despite the helicopters receiving numerous hits by ground fire, Airman Curtis exposed himself to the hostile fire throughout the rescue effort to provide suppressive fire, preventing much greater damage to the helicopter, and insuring the safe rescue of the downed airmen. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Airman Curtis has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.