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 Captain Edward John Lengel, United States Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 66th Rescue Squadron, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, near Patkia Province, Afghanistan, from 2 March 2002 to 3 March 2002. On that date, Captain Lengel launched on GECKO 11, for a combat rescue mission from alert status at a forward area rearming and refueling point, leading the flight of two HH-60G Pavehawk helicopters through enemy controlled territory to retrieve wounded personnel. He coordinated with the Joint Search and Rescue Center for critical mission information while directing the flight at less than two hundred feet above ground level with only starlight for illumination. Captain Lengel coordinated with the “Tactical Air Command-P” ground force element and both fighter and AC-130 close air support to ensure continuous fire for troops on the ground during helicopter ingress. His situational awareness and direction to GECKO 11 ensured both aircraft would be able to land in the mountainous landing zone at 8,500 feet above sea level. As soon as his aircraft touched down, it came under direct attack by enemy mortars, machine gun fire, and rocket-propelled grenades. His calm demeanor and decision skills under fire allowed the AC-130 to fire on targets 250 meters away. Captain Lengel’s piloting skills allowed him to takeoff at maximum available power and near maximum gross weight. He led the formation on a forty-five minute flight back through enemy territory to return critically wounded troops to surgical care. His skill and command presence directly led to nine men being saved. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Lengel has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.