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 First Lieutenant Leon Francis Ellis, Jr. (AFSN: FR-3171887), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as Pilot of an F-4C tactical fighter of the 390th Tactical Fighter Squadron, DaNang Air Base, Vietnam, PACIFIC Air Force, assigned to strike a high priority military target in North Vietnam, on 7 November 1967. On that date, Lieutenant Ellis’ aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire during his attack. Although his aircraft had burst into flames, without regard to his own personal safety he released his bombs directly on the target. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Ellis has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

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 a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain Leon Francis Ellis, Jr. (AFSN: FR-3171887), United States Air Force, for gallantry and intrepidity in action in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force on 12 November 1967, while a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam. Ignoring international agreements on treatment of prisoners of war, the enemy resorted to mental and physical cruelties to obtain information, confessions, and propaganda materials. Captain Ellis resisted their demands by calling upon his deepest inner strengths in a manner which reflected his devotion to duty and great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.