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 Howard Dale Davis, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as a Forward Air Controller and Pilot of an O-1A aircraft with the 6250th Combat Support Group, Tan Son Nhut Air Base, South Vietnam, in action in Kien Twong Province, South Vietnam, on 9 and 10 April 1966. Captain Davis flew more than 13 hours and directed 23 sorties of air support in defense of forward operating bases in danger of being overrun by Viet Cong Forces. Although virtually unprotected from constant intense ground fire from .50 caliber anti-aircraft weapons and light machine guns, Captain Davis persevered throughout the night and into the following morning. His courage and aggressive actions were instrumental in saving lives of many American military personnel. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Davis has reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.