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 (Army Award) to Captain Johnny C. Fender, United States Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against an armed hostile force while serving as a Forward Air Controller supporting the 2d Brigade, 9th Infantry Division, during combat operations in the Republic of Vietnam, on 15 May 1967. Flying his O-1 Bird Dog aircraft over an enemy stronghold in the Cam Son Zone, Captain Fender bravely volunteered to survey this area despite steadily deteriorating weather conditions and heavy hostile ground fire. Working at 1,100 feet due to the low ceiling, Captain Fender disregarded his own safety in order to direct six air strikes upon an extremely well-entrenched insurgent force. Braving automatic and small arms fire, Captain Fender flew over the hostile bunkers in order to draw fire so that he could locate various weapons. Throughout the series of strikes, which relieved a pinned-down Infantry unit, Captain Fender continued to remain in the area despite intense fire at his aircraft. Captain Fender’s courage, flying ability, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Air Force.