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 John H. Schafer (AFSN: FR-1911278), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as a Rescue Crew Commander with the 3d Air Rescue and Recovery Group, DaNang Air Base, Vietnam, in action on 15 July 1967, in Southeast Asia. On that date, Lieutenant Colonel Schafer launched his rescue helicopter during a rocket attack on the base and in doing so saved his vehicle from damage or complete destruction. Upon becoming airborne, he received a call from the Command Post requesting immediate medical assistance for wounded in the base housing area. He skillfully led a force of helicopters from all services to the damaged area. For two hours and thirty minutes of dangerous exacting flight, Lieutenant Colonel Schafer flew through exploding ordnance and burning aircraft to airlift 21 critically wounded men to medical aid, thus greatly reducing the suffering and loss of life. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Colonel Schafer has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Bronze Star Medal
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Bronze Star Medal
Service:
United States Air ForceRank:
Lieutenant ColonelAction Date:
February 22 – December 27, 1967
Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special orders G-184 (January 16, 1968)The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal to Lieutenant Colonel John H. Schafer (AFSN: FR-1911278), United States Air Force, for meritorious service as Operations Officer, 38th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron, Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, from 22 February 1967 to 27 December 1967. During this period, while exposed to danger from hostile forces, Colonel Schafer consistently demonstrated professional ability, sound judgment, and great enthusiasm in overcoming the many involved problems associated with his duties. His superb performance and signal contributions assisted materially in the success of the United States’ effort in Southeast Asia. The exemplary leadership, personal endeavor, and devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Schafer in this responsible position reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
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Distinguished Flying Cross
Service:
United States Air ForceRank:
First LieutenantRegiment:
6147th Tactical Control GroupDivision:
5th Air ForceAction Date:
October 1, 1952
Headquarters, 5th Air Force, General Orders No. 709 (November 28, 1952)The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant John H. Schafer (AFSN: FR-1911278), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement in aerial flight on 1 October 1952. As Pilot of an unarmed T-6 type aircraft of the 6147th Tactical Control Group, FIFTH Air Force, directing two flights of fighter aircraft east of the Pusan River, near Bunker City, Korea, Lieutenant Schafer displayed exceptional courage and skill. Despite poor visibility and heavy enemy ground fire, Lieutenant Schafer pinpointed the enemy targets then dived low to mark these targets for the orbiting fighter aircraft. He then directed the fighters on their bombing and strafing attacks. As a result of these actions, the fighters destroyed three artillery positions and fifteen enemy bunkers. One hundred yards of trench line was also caved in. By his high personal courage, skill and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Schafer has brought great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.