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 Airman Second Class Eugene John Traczyk, Jr., United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States, at Bien Hoa Air Base, Vietnam, on 1 November 1964. On that date while off duty, Airman Traczyk was awaken by the sounds of a devastating mortar attack that struck the base shortly after midnight. With complete disregard for his personal safety, airman Traczyk responded to the fire station through small arms fire, exploding mortars and ammunition, and initiated and sustained fire fighting and rescue operations on the burning flight line. While under enemy fire, Airman Traczyk was able to prevent additional damage and loss of life by successfully extinguishing fires during the enemy attack on burning B-57 Fighter Bombers, A1H fighter aircraft loaded with bombs and fuel. By his gallantry and devotion to duty Airman Traczyk has reflected credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.