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 (Infantry) Jerry J. Shoemaker, United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force, while serving with Troop B, 7th Armored Squadron, 1st Air Cavalry, 11th Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 1 June 1970. Captain Shoemaker distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as the pilot of a light observation helicopter which was conducting visual reconnaissance in the U Minh Forest, Kien Giang Province. While checking a suspected enemy location, Captain Shoemaker’s aircraft received intense automatic weapons fire, sustained severe damage, and crashed. In intense pain from numerous injuries, Captain Shoemaker’s first thoughts were for his observer. Though he could see three enemy soldiers firing at his wingman as he attempted to land, Captain Shoemaker, without hesitation and with complete disregard for his personal safety crawled out of the aircraft and into the open to give first aid to his observer. The observer was pinned in the wreckage and Captain Shoemaker, acutely aware of the possibility of an explosion, remained by the aircraft until the observer was free. Dragging his observer out of the wreckage, he crawled a safe distance from the aircraft and attempted to treat the observer’s wounds. Captain Shoemaker struggled valiantly to keep the man breathing. The observer was having great difficulty breathing and it took quick work on Captain Shoemaker’s part to keep him alive. Once the wounded man’s condition had stabilized, Captain Shoemaker crawled back to the wreckage and retrieved his rifle and some grenades. Returning to his observer, he began firing at the enemy soldiers who could be seen less than 100 meters away. In spite of the pain from his injuries he continued to defend his observer with rifle fire until a rescue aircraft landed and took them both to medical facilities. Captain Shoemaker’s personal bravery and devotion to his comrade were inspiring. His gallant actions and professional expertise were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.