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 Robert J. Ward, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as an HH-3E Helicopter Pararescue Specialist in Southeast Asia on 20 October 1966. On that date, Airman Ward successfully recovered six downed friendly airman. Despite the intense, accurately directed hostile fire which damaged his own unarmed rescue helicopter, Airman Ward, with indomitable courage and professional skill, chose to land next to a disabled companion helicopter and retrieve the crew plus a previously rescued wounded pilot. With undaunted determination, Airman Ward then, amid hostile fire, sought and successfully recovered the second downed pilot. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Airman Ward has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.