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 George E. Hunt, United States Air Force, for gallantry while participating in aerial flight as a Pararescueman on an unarmed HH-3E rescue helicopter over hostile territory on 22 April 1966. On that date, Airman Hunt proceeded deep into hostile territory to rescue two American pilots who had bailed out of their disabled aircraft. As soon as the first survivor was aboard, the helicopter proceeded to the second survivor. Because the second downed airman was critically injured, Airman Hunt went down the hoist to assist him. Just as Airman Hunt reached the ground, the helicopter was raked by hostile fire and was forced to withdraw from the area, leaving Airman Hunt in hostile territory. For the next twenty-two hours, Airman Hunt evaded hostile forces and was rescued the following day. Through his determination to assist a fellow American and by his gallantry and devotion to duty, Airman Hunt has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.