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 Staff Sergeant Arthur T. Brand, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as an HH-3E Flight Engineer near the A Shau Valley, Republic of Vietnam, on 30 March 1968. On that date, Sergeant Brand flew over hostile territory in low overcast weather to reach the survivors from six United States helicopters shot down by hostile forces. Although his helicopter received intense hostile ground fire, Sergeant Brand persisted in the rescue attempt, fully exposed to hostile gunners during two separate approaches. Sergeant Brand, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, hoisted four survivors to safety. Only then did fuel shortage and substantial battle damage sustained from the intense hostile ground fire compel him to leave the rescue site. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Brand has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.