The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Rial D. Lowell (AFSN: FV-2228156), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving with the 469th Tactical Fighter Squadron, in action over North Vietnam on 28 July 1967. On that date, Major Lowell led his flight into the target despite extremely marginal weather and intense hostile ground fire that damaged one aircraft in the force. Braving the threat of MiG interceptors and surface-to-air missiles, he placed his ordnance directly on target severely damaging the yard and its rolling stock. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Lowell has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.