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 Major Frank J. Pehr, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operation against an opposing armed force near the Tchepone, Laos, on 13 March 1971. On that date, Major Pehr was the Co-Pilot of 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 hostile fire in the area, and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Major Pehr monitored the engine, transmission and flight instruments; guarded the throttles; stood ready to take control of the helicopter if necessary; and radioed progress of the rescue attempt until he was severely wounded by withering ground fire which also crippled the helicopter. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, major Pehr has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.