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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain Stephen Richard Phillis, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed enemy of the United States during Operation DESERT STORM, on 15 February 1991. On that date, Captain Phillis was leading a two-ship of A-10 aircraft performing battlefield air interdiction against the Iraqi Republican Guard’s elite Medinah Armored Division just north of the northwestern border of Kuwait when his wingman was shot down by a surface-to-air missile. In the face of heavy enemy anti-aircraft artillery and surface-to-air missile fire, and without regard for his personal safety, Captain Phillis protected his downed wingman and began to coordinate search and rescue efforts. While engaged in the search and rescue coordination, he made the ultimate sacrifice while rendering aid to his fellow airman. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Phillis in the dedication of this service to his country reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.